helicopter-tour operator Mr. Michael Smatt, who residents complain is disturbing the peace.

Mr. Marshall did not know what all the fuss was about, saying two recent complaints about the chopper were made when it was not even in the air.

"The public had mistaken the US Navy helicopter for Mr. Smatt's helicopter,'' the Minister said.

He added: "The issue of whether or not helicopters should operate in Bermuda appears to be receiving more comment this summer than in the previous years' operations. We received very few comments from the public last year.'' He said the helicopter was required to fly 1,500 feet above Hamilton and 700 feet above other parts of the Island -- unless special permission is granted by the Director of Civil Aviation, as was the case for the filming of the TV movie Bermuda Grace.

Mr. Marshall assured the public his Ministry would not be issuing helicopter-tour licences anyone who applied.

He said Mr. Smatt had to meet rigid aeronautical regulations before getting a licence to operate his helicopter.

"The applicant must be a limited liability company. And to determine fitness and capability to provide the service, the applicant must furnish corporate, financial and aviation technical documents as required by the director of Civil Aviation,'' he said.

"Also, evidence of adequate operating insurance, particularly in respect to third party legal liability coverage must be furnished.'' He added that input on the helicopter received by his Ministry this summer would assist Government in evaluating residents' views on the need for such a service and any renewal request from Mr. Smatt.

Mr. Smatt has argued motorcycles cause more of a disturbance than his chopper.

Replying this week to several letters of complaint to The Royal Gazette , Civil Aviation Authority and US Naval Air Station, he said he was shocked by the amount of criticism generated towards his new Bell Jet Ranger, which is providing Island tours.

The feedback from tourists had been phenomenal, he said, adding he was willing to help out in search and rescue efforts when needed.