The Helicopter Podcast

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

In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with Ty Burlingham, chief pilot, and Mark Paulson, director of maintenance at Precision, to discuss what it takes to grow a successful helicopter operation while maintaining the culture and standards that got you there.

Ty shares his unconventional path into aviation, from studying at Oregon State University to discovering helicopters through an introductory flight that changed the direction of his career. He reflects on the transition from line pilot to leading a team of more than 30 pilots, the importance of professional development, and why investing in leadership is just as critical as developing flying skills.

Mark brings the maintenance perspective, explaining the responsibilities of overseeing an expanding fleet and the systems required to keep aircraft safe, reliable, and productive. From managing component life limits and maintenance schedules to supporting aircraft in the field, he highlights how communication between pilots, mechanics, and leadership is essential to minimizing downtime and maximizing operational success.

Together, they discuss Precision's evolution from a small, family-style operation into a larger organization, the challenges of preserving company culture as new employees join the team, and why strong relationships across every department remain one of the company's greatest strengths.

Whether you're a pilot, maintainer, or aviation leader, this episode offers valuable insights into building an operation where people, culture, and communication are every bit as important as the aircraft themselves.

Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Hillsboro Heli Academy, Sirius XM and Airbus.

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

When Hurricane Helene devastated parts of the southeastern United States, entire communities were cut off by flooding, landslides, and destroyed infrastructure. In those critical first days, civilian helicopter pilots from across the country stepped up to deliver supplies, rescue stranded residents, and support relief efforts where few others could.

Halsey sits down with Valerie Smaldone and Monty Hobbs of Just Do Good Entertainment, Jason Quinn of The Real ResQ podcast, and David Smith, CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company, to discuss the making of Air Angels, the incredible volunteer response from the helicopter community, and why these stories of service deserve to be preserved.

Together, they discuss how private pilots, volunteers, and ground crews organized an extraordinary relief effort, why helicopters proved to be one of the most effective tools during the crisis, and the countless people whose selfless actions made a difference when it mattered most.

More than a film about helicopters, Air Angels is a story about community, compassion, and the unique role our industry can play when people come together to help those in need. It's a powerful reminder that some of aviation's greatest missions happen far from the spotlight—and that behind every helicopter is a team of people willing to answer the call.

Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Robinson Helicopter and Sellacopter.

Links to the Real ResQ Podcast episodes mentioned.
#201 Matt McSwain & Andy Petree 
#202 Volunteer Rally for Hurricane Helene
#203 Marty Quinn Hurricane Helene Experience
#204 Volunteer Pilot Experience during Helene
#205 USCG Volunteer after Hurricane Helene
#206 Inside Disaster Response | Bob Pasquale
#259 Erica Zangwill & Dr. Craig McCotter from Air Angels

Other episodes from The Helicopter Podcast covering the Hurricane Helene response.
#98 Operation Helo | Eric Robinson
#144 Heroic efforts of civilian helicopters | Pat Harrigan 

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

In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with Ian Lumpp, executive sales director at GlobalAir.com, to discuss the role business aviation plays in the broader aviation ecosystem and the challenges the industry faces moving forward.

Ian shares insights from his involvement with the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), highlighting the importance of educating policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the public about the value business aviation provides. The conversation explores common misconceptions surrounding the industry, including perceptions around environmental impact and the role business aircraft play in supporting organizations and communities.

They also discuss advocacy efforts within aviation, the importance of engaging with lawmakers and regulators, and how innovation—from sustainable aviation fuel to advancements in aircraft design—continues to shape the future of the industry.

This episode is a thoughtful look at why aviation needs strong advocates, how the industry can better tell its story, and what lies ahead for business aviation in an increasingly complex operating environment.

Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Metro Aviation, Robinson Helicopter and Sellacopter.

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

In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with Andre and Kimberly Hutchings, co-founders of Volo Mission, to discuss what it takes to develop skilled external load pilots and build a culture of safety, leadership, and continuous learning.

Drawing on decades of experience in helicopter operations and training, Andre and Kimberly share their perspectives on the unique demands of long-line and external load work, where precision, situational awareness, and teamwork are critical to success. The conversation explores the path many pilots take into utility flying, the importance of mastering the fundamentals, and why technical proficiency alone is not enough to excel in demanding operational environments.

They also discuss the role of mentorship, leadership, and communication in developing the next generation of pilots, along with the importance of creating training environments that prepare aviators for real-world challenges rather than simply meeting minimum standards.

This episode is a thoughtful look at the craft of external load flying and the people responsible for passing those skills on, highlighting why strong leadership, disciplined training, and a commitment to safety remain at the heart of successful helicopter operations.

Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Helicopter Institute, Precision Aviation Group, and Robinson Helicopter.

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In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with Keith Moreland of Rotorcraft Services Group (RSG) to discuss the relationships, communication, and leadership principles that help keep aviation operating safely and effectively.

Drawing on decades of experience supporting operators across the helicopter industry, Keith shares why strong pilot-maintenance relationships are built on trust, responsiveness, and a shared commitment to safety. The conversation explores the importance of open communication, understanding the challenges faced by both pilots and maintainers, and why collaboration is essential to successful operations.

They also discuss the value of professional relationships in an industry where reputations travel quickly and connections often span continents. Keith reflects on the importance of being available when operators need support, while sharing lessons learned from years of building trust with customers, colleagues, and industry partners.

The discussion also turns to leadership, mentorship, and the responsibility of developing teams that can thrive long after individual leaders move on. From eliminating single points of failure to sharing knowledge and creating opportunities for others to grow, Keith offers practical insights into building resilient organizations.

This episode is a reminder that while aircraft and technology continue to evolve, strong relationships, clear communication, and trusted teams remain at the heart of aviation.

Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Hillsboro Heli Academy, Airbus and Helicopter Institute. 

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In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with Joe LaRue of Prairie Air, recorded at Verticon 2026, to talk about how the rotorcraft industry is evolving at the operator level.

Joe shares his path into aviation and how that led to building Prairie Air into a maintenance and operations-focused business centered around Robinson helicopters. The conversation highlights the importance of quality maintenance, record-keeping, and long-term support—and how those details directly impact safety and aircraft value.

They also discuss the growing need for workforce development and what it takes to bring new pilots and mechanics into the industry. Joe outlines his work with local schools and community programs, and why creating access and awareness is critical for the future.

The conversation also touches on emerging technology, including autonomous aircraft, and how those tools may fit into real-world operations rather than replace them.

This episode is a practical look at how operators are balancing tradition, technology, and people to move the industry forward.

Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Robinson Helicopter, Precision Aviation Group and Sellacopter

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

In this episode, Halsey Schider sits down with Roy Knaus of Heli Austria to discuss the company's journey from a small family operation to one of Europe's most established helicopter operators.

Roy shares the history of Heli Austria, founded by his father in the 1980s, and reflects on the growth that has taken the company from a fleet of just three helicopters to nearly 40 aircraft supporting a wide range of missions. The conversation explores how the company has expanded beyond Austria into international markets, including operations in Iceland and Chile, while maintaining a focus on safety, customer service, and operational excellence.

They also discuss the realities of growing a helicopter business, building strong local partnerships, navigating different regulatory environments, and creating opportunities in sectors ranging from HEMS and firefighting to utility work and heli-skiing.

Throughout the conversation, Roy offers lessons learned from decades in the industry, emphasizing adaptability, continuous learning, and the importance of building a motivated team capable of taking on new challenges.

This episode is a look at what it takes to grow a helicopter company over the long term and how strong partnerships, vision, and persistence can create opportunities far beyond where the journey began.

Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Enstrom Helicopter Corporation, Airbus and Hillsboro Heli Academy. 

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

In this episode, host Halsey Schider sits down with Todd Tetzlaff, senior vice-president of regulatory affairs and global relations at Enstrom Helicopter, to talk about how a legacy manufacturer continues to adapt in today’s market.

Todd shares perspective on Enstrom’s long history in the industry and what it takes to stay relevant, from navigating an increasingly complex certification environment, to supporting operators in the field. The conversation highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with service centers and maintenance, repair and overhaul shops, and why that support network is critical to long-term success.

They also discuss Enstrom’s push to expand in Europe, including the challenges of entering a market with established competitors and different regulatory expectations. Todd breaks down how certification, infrastructure, and local partnerships all play a role in making that growth possible.

This episode is a look at what it takes to sustain and grow a helicopter manufacturer over time—and how experience, support, and adaptability continue to shape the path forward.

Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Metro Aviation and Enstrom Helicopter.

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

In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, Halsey Schider sits down with Ryan Walters to talk about his path from Army Ranger to pilot in the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment.

Ryan shares how his time in the Ranger Regiment shaped his perspective early on, and how working alongside the 160th during that period ultimately influenced his decision to transition into aviation through the warrant officer program. After seeing those crews operate up close, the goal became clear—get in the front seat.

The conversation focuses on the realities of that transition, the demands of training, and the standard required to operate in a unit built around precision and consistency. Ryan also reflects on the level of performance he witnessed in the field, where training, preparation, and trust in the team allowed people to do extraordinary things under pressure.

This episode is a look at what it takes to move into high-level aviation roles—and how the right environment, mindset, and team can shape what’s possible.

Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Airbus, Hillsboro Heli Academy and Robinson Helicopter. 

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

In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, Halsey Schider sits down with Sean Moretz—returning as the show’s very first guest more than 170 episodes later.

Sean talks through how his role as a designated pilot examiner (DPE) has shaped his career, and how relationships built early in aviation tend to come full circle over time. Through that work, he’s stayed closely connected to pilots at key moments in their progression, reinforcing the importance of mentorship and staying engaged in the industry.

The conversation reflects on how both Sean’s perspective and the industry itself have evolved since that first episode. They also revisit early days in flight instruction, the challenge of building confidence in new pilots, and the lessons that come from learning on the job.

This episode is a look at how experience builds over time—what changes, what doesn’t, and why the people in this industry matter just as much as the flying.

Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Precision Aviation Group and Sellacopter.