Original Message

PHI, Bristow (Era) and RLC all require an instrument rating... even if you're only flying light helicopters VFR. And yes, there are some cushy VFR contracts in the GOM (such as BSEE). But you will still need an instrument rating.

Without that... Westwind or Panther might hire you.

You can argue the value or practical application of an instrument rating all you want... the reality is that your quality of life at work, in the GOM, will be absolute trash without one. Working for a company like PHI vs Westwind is a completely different experience.