St. Maarten/St. Martin's only helicopter service, Heli St. Martin, has been operational since August 2006 and celebrated its official opening in early November 2006, with service seven days a week from the airport in Grand Case. Before offering the service, Heli St. Martin acquired all necessary permits and certifications to comply with the rules and regulations of the relevant international and local authorities. The helicopter, a Eurocopter EC 120-B Colibri, is a newer and quieter model. However, because it is a single turbine helicopter, it can only fly the short distance between St. Maarten/St. Martin, Anguilla and St Barth. The company hopes to purchase a twin turbine helicopter within a year and a half that will be able to fly longer distances. Although this is an expensive alternative to the ferry and the normal flights to St Barth, it is another option. For more details, visit http://www.helistmartin.com/islandtours.php and http://www.airsxm.eu/page.php?page=35.