Panther Helicopters serves independent oil rigs like this Hellis Oil and Gas rig, which is approximately 30 miles offshore of Louisiana. Helipads on these smaller rigs are usually rated for lighter helicopters, and the platforms range in size from 1,225 square feet to 2,500 square feet. Panther flies as far into the Gulf as 120 miles offshore to oil rigs, pipeline companies, and ships at the mouth of the river. 62 AOPA PILOT / February 2023