Throwing Rocks Helicopter Internet “Experts?” By Randy Rowles
In recent years, finding an expert in the helicopter field appears to have become easy. With every social media post of a helicopter- related issue, so-called helicopter internet “experts” are full of detailed explanations. In many cases, details of an incident or accident are not even available, yet commentary inferring factual information about a helicopter-related event is often provided.
Recent high-profile helicopter accidents have proven to be social media gold. Comments from self-endorsed “experts” providing incorrect or false information online can misinform the public. This information can create a poor perception of the helicopter industry, resulting in increased noise complaints or unwarranted safety concerns.
Engaging in helicopter-related issues on social media is a great opportunity to reflect professionalism in our industry. Explaining events in a constructive manner that provides readers an opportunity to gain insight and better understand our industry is the positive side of social media. Derogatory or negative comments undermine the perception that our industry is good for the community.
When helicopter pilots attack other helicopter pilots or companies on social media, that information only hurts our industry. When the need to engage a pilot or company rises to the point where such comments are necessary, engaging them directly is often the best course of action. If you can’t have such a direct, professional conversation for a reason outside of your control, walk away. Trying to give a social media tongue-lashing often hurts you more than your target.
Any attempt to provide uneducated commentary on helicopter accidents or incidents should be avoided as well. It is these comments provided by the helicopter internet “experts” that are often found to be incorrect.
What would compel someone to make derogatory, negative or incorrect comments in a social media setting? One can only assume the ability to make such comments anonymously empowers some. I find anonymous comments that are negative to be cowardly. If you have a belief or a strong feeling, you should engage and support those beliefs; however, hiding behind a keyboard and throwing lingual rocks isn’t an act of valor.
Randy Rowles has been an FAA pilot examiner for 20 years for all helicopter certificates and ratings. He holds an FAA Gold Seal Flight Instructor Certificate, NAFI Master Flight Instructor designation, and was the 2013 recipient of the HAI Flight Instructor of the Year Award. Rowles is currently the owner of the Helicopter Institute. He can be reached at
randyrowlesdpe@gmail.com
If you have any comments or questions, please let me know at
randyrowlesdpe@gmail.com
80 May/June 2022
Remember, every negative post placed on the internet is placed there in perpetuity for all to read. The success of the helicopter industry is challenging enough. Don’t participate in making our livelihood that much more difficult just to get a few words off your chest during a keyboard-pounding rant.
If you’re going to be a helicopter internet expert, stay professional. Our industry needs the help!
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