Let's Talk Choppers

So, up to this point I've been a fixed wing guy (2,500hr ATP, SEL MEL, SES). I'm kind of getting the itch to try something different and challenge myself at the same time. I'm thinking it might be time to try my hand at one of them whirly birds. But, when I do something I tend to do it with a splash, I see a new acquisition in my future. I have a business use (tending to my orchards and development projects) which is a mission suited pretty well for helicopter. They are spaced far enough to be a pain by car, but too close for airplane travel. I'm invested in the Central Valley and Lake Tahoe area. Due to the elevation in Tahoe, I imagine the heli needs to be pretty capable. I also need seating for 5. Will the R66 or Bell 505 allow me to transport a payload of 800#s to a cruise altitude of 12,500 and hover, land and take off at an elevation of 7,500ft? On paper I believe they will, but is this asking too much of these aircraft? I assume an R66 or Bell 505 is too much bird to train in? An R22 to R66 transition seems to make sense (plus I'd most likely buy an R66 and then move to the Bell 505 after the 505 has had a few years of depreciation and proven safety record).

 

Regarding 12,500, I have to traverse the Sierras. The peaks are up to around 12K, which I wouldn't be overflying, but I will need to top at least 9K terrain to avoid stretching the legs too far. I assume with downdrafts, etc. I need at least 2,000' clearance. Am I wrong about that?

 

I have that sense too. I'm trying to figure out if this is a reasonably safe mission, and what equipment is necessary. There is a local guy that flies sight seeing trips in Tahoe in a R44. But just because you can do it, doesn't mean you should.