RPMN: Have you ever had an “Oh, crap” moment in a helicopter? Can you summarize what happened?


One incident that comes to mind was the time I flew boat photos in a Robinson R22. The photographer wanted shots from three sides of the boat. During one pass I tightened the turn too quickly with full left pedal and too much left cyclic. As we came around the backside I misjudged the wind, lost translational lift, and ended up HOGE only about 30 feet to 40 feet above the ocean. I quickly pulled maximum manifold pressure, pitched down a few degrees, and waited anxiously to regain ETL, which the helicopter did only 10 feet above the waves. “Great flying!” the photographer cried out. With a heart rate of over 200, I was not able to utter a single word.


RPMN: If you could give only one piece of advice to a new helicopter pilot, what would it be?


Never ever give up! My father gave me those words in the form of a well-known drawing of a bird trying to swallow a frog, which was choking the bird. Not giving up works when you’ve been turned down for a job you applied for, you’re trying to get out of a dangerous situation, or you’re standing by your decision when others are trying to persuade you to do something you are uncomfortable doing.


RPMN: In your view, what is the greatest challenge for the helicopter industry at this moment in time?


The digital technology already used in airplanes, for example glass cockpits, flight management systems, digital engine controls, etc. I understand that it can be hard and intimidating for pilots who are not so savvy with the digital world. On the other hand, I see operators spending too much allotted simulator training time trying to teach too much automation not absolutely required for a specific operation. Stick-and-rudder skills can easily be forgotten.


Do you know someone who would be a good subject for Meet a Rotorcraft Pro? Email your suggestion to the editor-in-chief:


lyn.burks@rotorcraftpro.com rotorcraftpro.com 15


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