The Helicopter Podcast

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Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider talks with Simon Jones, founder of Advanced Flight and a top-tier helicopter instructor at the Robinson Helicopter factory. With over 17,000 hours of flight time, including over 12,000 hours teaching in the Robinson R44, Simon's name is known far and wide through the industry.

They explore a range of topics—from advanced maneuvers like autorotations and recovery techniques to the evolution of flight training and safety innovations. Simon shares insights on...

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In this buzzing in-person episode, host Halsey Schider takes The Helicopter Podcast to Verticon 2025 for a panel that’s all about the skies teaming up. Recorded live amid the show’s hum, Halsey is joined by Peter Fuchs of Ascent Aero Systems, regulatory specialist Amber Harrison from Vertical Aviation International, and Heliflite’s Rob Bentley-Johnston from Australia. They dive into how drones and helicopters aren’t rivals but partners, boosting missions from rescue to logistics.

Peter shares Ascent’s journey...

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, your host Halsey Schider welcomes the legendary Jon Gray and Jack Schonely, from The Hangar Z Podcast, for an in-depth discussion on law enforcement aviation! They dive into recent highlights from Hangar Z, including Halsey's unforgettable ride-along with the LAPD helicopter unit.

The conversation explores the critical role of tactical flight officers (TFOs), the impact of advanced technology in police aviation, and the communication challenges of operating in busy airspace.

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider reconnects with industry colleagues and friends, Cornéll Grové and Dr. Daniel Borer, to discuss their latest venture: Swiss Premium. This high-end helicopter brokerage specializes in offering clients nearly new luxury helicopters, emphasizing unparalleled ethics and standards in every transaction.

Cornéll and Daniel share their vision for Swiss Premium, highlighting their commitment to providing discerning buyers with top-tier aircraft and exceptional service. Their extensive experience in helicopter sal...

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In this electrifying episode, host Halsey Schider brings The Helicopter Podcast to the buzzing floor of Verticon 2025, sitting down with Pete Anderson, senior manager of helicopter operations at Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E).

As California’s biggest utility—powering one in 20 Americans—PG&E leans on its aviation muscle, and Pete—with 28 years on the job—has lived it all. From lineman days on high-voltage lines to running a top-tier helicopter outfit, he shares a charged view of ke...

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Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this thrilling in-person episode, host Halsey Schider brings The Helicopter Podcast to Verticon 2025, sitting down with Airbus Helicopters’ Dirk Petry, a 25-year engineering veteran, and test pilot Volker Bau. Recorded live amid the show’s buzz, they unveil the H140—a perfect blend of the H135’s affordability and the H145’s power, sparked by market demand for more space and performance. Its five-blade rotor cuts vibration, while a sleek medical interior and six comfy seats shine.

Volker sha...

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Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this exciting in-person episode, host Halsey Schider takes The Helicopter Podcast to the pulsing heart of Verticon 2025, sitting down with Robinson Helicopter Company’s CEO David Smith, and VP of Engineering Sean Doyle.

The conversation ignites with the R66’s stunning transformation. David and Sean unpack its bold upgrades—cutting-edge avionics, a seamless 2-axis autopilot, and a trio of fresh options: the affordable Southwood, the refined Palo Verde, and the one-year-only Riviera special edition. It’s a pilot’s...

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Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Cade Clark, chief government affairs officer for Vertical Aviation International (VAI), to discuss VAI’s pivotal role in shaping the helicopter industry. Recorded live at European Rotors, Cade shares the excitement behind VAI’s partnership with the European Helicopter Association and their collaborative efforts to bring this premier event to life, showcasing the vibrancy and future potential of European rotorcraft aviation.

The conversation delves into Cade...

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Dylan Tent, a helicopter pilot and real estate agent, to discuss his unconventional career path and entrepreneurial successes. Dylan shares how the Red Bull "The Art of Flight" movie shifted his aspirations from chiropractic school to aviation, and how that eventually led into real estate.

They explore his unique use of aerial photography to market luxury homes, the financial realities of helicopter ownership, and the...

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Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this week’s exclusive Helicopter Podcast Short, Halsey dives into all things VAI, with Verticon #1 just days away!

He shares what makes VAI special and why anyone in the helicopter industry should consider attending—whether it’s  to learn something new in a class, explore job opportunities at the career fair, or simply connect with fellow helicopter enthusiasts.

Halsey also outlines the exciting plans for the show, including his collaboration with Vertical Magazine to co-produce exclusi...

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Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this engaging episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Beth Christianos, owner of HeliPackers and managing partner at Leading Edge Aerospace. Both Halsey and Beth bring extensive experience to the table, delving into the intricacies of aircraft pre-purchase inspections and the critical role they play in the helicopter industry.

Beth shares her journey of identifying a significant gap in the market concerning thorough pre-purchase inspections and efficient aircraft shipping logistics. Through her work...

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down once more with Felix Christians to dive deep into the complexities of maritime helicopter operations.

They explore the unique challenges of managing aviation on large vessels, from regulatory compliance and training, to communication between aviation and maritime crews.

Felix sheds light on the experience requirements for helicopter pilots, the authority of vessel captains, and the importance of bridge briefings in ensuring safe and efficient...

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In this episode of the Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider is joined by Felix Christians, a veteran helicopter pilot with over 25 years of experience and nearly 10,000 flight hours. Felix shares his journey from Germany to Canada, highlighting his work across diverse environments and industries. The conversation delves into his passion for teaching, scenario-based training, and his role at Select Aviation College, where he helps students navigate pathways to aviation careers in Canada. Felix emphasizes the unique advantages of training in...

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In this episode, host Halsey Schider engages in a compelling discussion with Phil Haupt, European representative for Hillsboro Heli Academy (HHA), and Sascha Richter from ADAC Luftrettung, Germany’s leading air medical helicopter operator. The conversation centers on the innovative pathway program established between HHA and ADAC, designed to provide German-speaking Europeans with a streamlined route to a career in helicopter aviation.

Phil and Sascha delve into the specifics of this partnership, highlighting how students can train at HH...

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In this episode, host Halsey Schider dives into the transformative world of aviation simulation with Fabi Riesen, CEO of Loft Dynamics. Fabi and his team at Loft Dynamics are revolutionizing how pilots train, bringing a fresh, immersive approach to flight simulation that leverages cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) technology. 

The conversation begins with Fabi sharing his early fascination with technology and how a simple VR headset sparked the idea that would eventually lead to Loft Dynamics. Fueled by his p...

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Randy Rowles, a veteran aviator and founder of the Helicopter Institute.

With over 40 years in the industry, Randy shares insights on aviation training, mentorship, and the entrepreneurial drive that shaped his career.

The discussion highlights the critical need for experienced instructors, and the evolving role of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in pilot certification. Randy also reflects on many interesting topics, from the...

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Host Halsey Schider engages in a compelling conversation with Fredrik Kämpfe, chair of the European Helicopter Association (EHA). Fredrik shares insights into the collaborative efforts between EHA and the European Rotors event, highlighting their joint mission to advocate for and advance the European helicopter industry.

Fredrik outlines his role within EHA, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to representing the helicopter community across 13 European countries. He discusses EHA’s proactive engagement with operators and the European Union Aviation Safet...

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, Halsey Schider sits down with Shawn Johnson, a seasoned helicopter pilot and entrepreneur, to discuss his dynamic career journey and insights into the helicopter industry.

Together, they explore Shawn's path from flight school to corporate aviation, his experiences operating in the Gulf, and the decision-making challenges faced in high-stakes environments.

The conversation looks into key aviation themes, including the importance of rigorous safety protocols, the intricacies of flying in...

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In this special end-of-year wrap-up episode of The Helicopter Podcast, Halsey Schider reflects on an incredible year, celebrating the journey to 100 episodes! He revisits standout moments and conversations with notable guests such as aerial coordinator Kevin LaRosa, Red Bull pilot Aaron Fitzgerald, and Robinson test pilot Chris Smith.

Halsey shares his gratitude for the loyal listeners and sponsors who have supported the podcast's growth and provides a glimpse into the exciting plans ahead for 2025. Tune into this episode...

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In this two-part series, Jon Gray sits in for host Halsey Schider, as he interviews two aviation legends, Pete Gillies and Doug Williams. This episode is packed with insight and experiences from the world of aviation, where Pete shares his remarkable background as an instructor and his fascinating journey through off-roading, HAM radio, and logging.

Listeners will hear captivating stories from Pete's time at Western Helicopters and his involvement in fire contracts, culminating in his unforgettable first flight...

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Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this two-part series, Jon Gray sits in for host Halsey Schider, as he interviews two aviation legends, Pete Gillies and Doug Williams. This episode is packed with insight and experiences from the world of aviation, where Pete shares his remarkable background as an instructor and his fascinating journey through off-roading, HAM radio, and logging.

Listeners will hear captivating stories from Pete's time at Western Helicopters and his involvement in fire contracts, culminating in his unforgettable first flight...

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Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this engaging episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider welcomes back David Smith, president and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC), for his fourth appearance, and introduces Randall Schaffer, RHC’s newly appointed vice president of customer success. Recorded live at European Rotors, the conversation delves into RHC’s strategic initiatives and the evolving landscape of the helicopter industry.

Randall shares insights into his new role, emphasizing RHC’s commitment to enhancing customer experiences and support. David...

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Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider teams up with Jon Gray from the Hangar Z Podcast to engage in a dynamic conversation with Dr. Frank Liemandt, aviation consultant with more than 25 years of experience.  Amongst his most prominent clients are the German Helicopter Association where he works as the managing director and European Rotors where he serves as the show director. 

Recorded live at the bustling European Rotors event, the discussion captures the energy an...

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider connects with Todd Schultz, co-founder of the Pamas Mission, an organization dedicated to providing medical flights and humanitarian aid in the Philippines. Although Todd no longer flies directly for the mission, his impact continues as he actively trains the next generation of missionary pilots, preparing them to navigate the unique challenges of flying in remote and demanding environments.

Todd shares the inspiring story behind the Pamas Mission, highlighting...

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider steps outside his comfort zone and explores the world of experimental aviation with Gerrit Schulze a pilot with a passion for powered parachutes and experimental helicopters like the Rotorway Jet Exec. Though Halsey is less familiar with experimental aircraft, Gerrit opens up a whole new perspective, sharing how this path can be a cost-effective route into aviation—if done correctly and with thorough research.

Gerrit recounts his journey fr...

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider interviews Woody McClendon, a seasoned pilot and author of When the Angel Calls.

Woody shares his extensive experience in air medical services, emphasizing the critical roles of flight nurses and paramedics in patient care. He discusses the challenges of night flying and the improvements in safety that have shaped the industry over the years. The conversation also highlights the value of simulator training in preparing pilots for demanding...

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Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

For the 100th episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider @HeliHalsey is thrilled to celebrate this milestone with Leigh Coates, a trailblazing helicopter pilot who’s been making waves in the aviation world!

Leigh’s journey is nothing short of incredible—from BoarderCross snowboard racing, to piloting helicopters, running her own helicopter business, and even racing jetpacks!

In this exciting episode, they dive into her experiences flying in tough environments, her dedication to safety, and her pa...

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Jacob Tuck, a pilot and mechanic, to discuss his unique journey in aviation—from working as an aircraft mechanic to becoming a first officer at Delta Airlines.

Jacob shares how financial constraints and a passion for hands-on work led him to pursue maintenance initially. He highlights the value of understanding aircraft systems from a maintenance perspective, emphasizing the problem-solving and adaptability required in real-world scenarios. Wi...

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In this special edition of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Pat Harrigan, a Green Beret, entrepreneur, and congressional candidate from North Carolina, to discuss Hurricane Helene's devastating impact and the critical role of civilian helicopters in the disaster response efforts.

Pat shares his unique journey from military service, to business ownership, and now to politics, emphasizing the value available to young men and women in the unique leadership and personal responsibility skill sets they can gain from service in the military. He also talks about how that...

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider welcomes back David Smith, CEO of Robinson Helicopters, for an insightful discussion on the latest developments surrounding the R66 and the company’s ongoing commitment to safety and customer satisfaction.

David shares major maintenance updates on the R66, with extended component lives aimed at reducing operational costs and enhancing aircraft longevity and value. He also emphasizes the importance of investing in pilot training, discussing the new Certified Flight In...

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In this episode, host Halsey Schider chats with Wesley Rhoads, a helicopter pilot and sales broker whose journey into aviation is anything but ordinary.

Wesley's journey is full of practical insights and valuable lessons for aspiring pilots. He reflects on the hustle and creativity required to succeed as a helicopter pilot, highlights the role of mentorship and how it shaped his career, and how he now emphasizes the importance of paying it forward.

For anyone looking...

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider is joined by his producer, Zach Whitehead, to discuss their experiences in the aviation industry, as well as some major topics of conversation for the helicopter community.

Zach shares his journey to becoming a CFI and professional pilot, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and a professional mindset in building a successful career.

The conversation addresses the challenges helicopter pilots face, particularly on feeling undervalued despite their...

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In this episode, Halsey Schider is joined for the second time by his longtime friend and colleague, Dave Dziura. Dave now brings a wealth of experience as a designated pilot examiner (DPE), the chair of the VAI Safety Industry Advisory Council, and the owner of SafeRotors, a company that provides insurance-approved Initial and recurrent training in multiple aircraft, including the Bell 505.

Halsey and Dave dive into the latest advancements in helicopter safety, training, and testing. They discuss the...

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In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with David Funderburk, a helicopter pilot with a unique journey that spans the steel industry to the skies.

David shares how his passion for helicopters began, leading him to pursue flight training at Midwest Helicopters and Cape Copters, leading him to a career at Air Evac Lifeteam (AEL).

The conversation between Halsey and David covers a wide range of topics related to helicopter training and career development.

...

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In this solo episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider shares his thoughts on frequently-asked questions, and recounts hilarious stories from his flying career.

Halsey speaks on choosing the right flight school for you, the differences in part 61 and 141 schools, and what important attributes to look for.

For those considering a career change into aviation, Halsey also speaks on the major items to look at while making that type of decision. 

Thank you t...

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, Halsey Schider sits down with Mandy Leader, a helicopter pilot working in the tour industry, to explore her journey into aviation, her training in Australia, and her experiences flying passengers. Mandy also provides insights into the differences between flight training in the U.S. and other countries.

The discussion spans a wide range of topics, from Visa considerations to job opportunities in the Australian helicopter industry. Mandy also talks about the...

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In this episode, host Halsey Schider sits down with Phil Haupt, a passionate helicopter pilot whose journey began with a tour flight in a Bell Jet Ranger at age 12 in South Africa. Phil’s dedication to helicopters led him to dive fully into flight training once he could afford it. With extensive knowledge in European students training in the U.S., Phil has helped over 150 Europeans start their training. His experience includes working as a certified flight instructor, fighting fires in...

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider interviews Walter Dusseldorp, known as The Dutch Mentor, an executive coach in the healthcare industry and a helicopter and airplane pilot and enthusiast. Walter shares his remarkable journey in aviation, detailing his experience as a flight paramedic and his passion for sharing helicopter content on social media.

Halsey and Walter discuss the critical importance of crew resource management in air medical operations and the potential risks associated with...

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Colin Lawrence, a dedicated helicopter pilot who started in the U.S. Army National Guard, and later purchased his own Robinson R44 Raven I.

The conversation looks into Colin's inspiring journey to becoming a pilot, the critical mission of the National Guard, and the various helicopter models they operate. Colin shares his experiences from flight school, shedding light on the unique opportunities and challenges that...

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In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider welcomes back Forrest Krupin, his first returning guest, to explore Forrest's journey in the helicopter industry and the impact of their previous conversation on inspiring future pilots.

Forrest discusses flying tours in Alaska, highlighting challenges like unpredictable weather and wildlife encounters. He stresses the importance of mentorship, networking, and maintaining a positive attitude. Forrest shares his experiences flying LIDAR in Jet Rangers and Long Rangers and performing utility...