Helicopter Academy External load and vertical reference training

The long line course we offer gets you hands-on experience with the equipment similar to that which you’ll actually be using when you start work as a long line pilot.

This real-world training includes practicing with long lines, carrying external loads using a cargo net, lifting a bucket simulating a load of holding 300lbs of concrete, and flying precision maneuvers such as setting utility poles and simulating placing rooftop air conditioning units.

Long Line Course Description

Our long line course consists of 15 hours of Robinson R22 flight time and 10 hours of ground school on Direct Visual Observational Control or Vertical Reference, Part 133 regulations and Helicopter Long Line flying.

Stage I: Introduction to Direct Visual Operational Control (Vertical Reference) flying, 5 hours:

• 2 1/2 hours pad work Vertical Reference on airport
• 2 1/2 hours on primitive makeshift heliports
• 4 hours Ground instruction
• Stage check Pilot evaluation

Upon training completion of Stage I, pilots will have a basic understanding of DVOC techniques and be able to demonstrate proficiency in operating from makeshift heliports (Landing on logs).

Stage II: Introduction Long Line flying, 5 hours:

• Introduction to the basics of Long Line flying
• 3 hours Ground instruction

Pilot evaluation Stage II check

Upon stage training completion pilots will have an understanding of Long line concepts and techniques.

Stage III: Advanced Proficiency Long line flying, 5 hours:

• Show advanced proficiency in Long Line techniques
• Related ground instruction
• Stage Check: Final evaluation and Part 133 External Loads Sign-off

Upon training completion pilots will have met the minimum standards for Advanced Long Line Proficiency.

learn more about external load training

Pilot testimonial: Have you recently graduated flight school with a CFI or just finished your private license and are wondering if your flight school is right for you. Well, Helicopter Academy/Boatpix can provide some options no other flight school can offer. I was just such an individual just two years ago. I had graduated with my CFII from a good school that provided all of the basics for my advancement into the helicopter world. However, the only thing they could not provide was a job. As most of you already know, this presents a very big obstacle. After searching for far too long for a job I finally found Boatpix. It is a non-tradition way of building hours but provides wonderful real world experience. It is not free, but has been the best investment I have made in my helicopter training. After completing the 100 hours of photo flight training necessary to be safe and competent at the job, Tom turned me lose with an R22 Mariner and my first student. Since then, I have flown over 1200 hours and completed my ATP. None of this would have been possible without Boatpix. Tom McDermott provided me with free housing while I was training and provided me with students in the busy season. He also found me a job at the local airport during the winter months. This coincidentally lead to a job flying tours in an R44. Also one of Tom's connections. I now have a full time salaried position in the South Florida area that was given to me by a former Helicopter Academy/Boatpix graduate and instructor. South Florida is a hot bed of helicopter action and is a great place to live, learn, and work. Do yourself a favor and call Tom to learn more about Boatpix/Helicopter Academy today. I still work for Boatpix on my off flying an the R44 days because it is probably the most fun you will ever have flying a helicopter.

- Brian Treptow