Regulators announced major safety improvements to North Sea helicopter operations yesterday in the wake of a series of fatal North Sea helicopter crashes over recent years.

The Civil Aviation Authority's (CAA) decision follows the August 2013 Super Puma tragedy in which four people died and the April 2009 Super Puma disaster which claimed 16 lives and a series of North Sea helicopter crashes over recent years.

Among the measures announced are amendments to the seating of passengers and equipment improvements.