Mainly due to expense realities many aerial shooters focus on fixed wing aircraft as their go-to platform of choice when accepting an aerial assignment. Seasoned shooters will always try to convince clients that a helicopter is often a more efficient choice for a project due to its flexibility in meeting shot list constraints.

However not all helicopters and operators are created equal….

When shopping for a helicopter service there are several key considerations to bear in mind. First is the machine itself. Turbine power plants are ideal to provide the necessary power-to-weight performance required to safely and reliably position you for every shot. Fully articulated, multi-blade rotor systems that are properly tracked & balanced (a tedious, time consuming and expensive process) by their operators are optimum for jitter-free print shooting in low light, or demanding video assignments. Authoritative tail rotor systems provide the necessary anti-torque yaw control required when the assignment requires sideways out-of-trim flying, or an extra margin of safety when the winds get a little “sporty”. Instrument panels equipped with redundant moving map GPS’s, including terrain warning, in-flight real-time weather and airspace restriction updates are an invaluable resource. Shooting position flexibility by mission is another consideration – does the aircraft offer you the option of POV and side view? How about electrically heated gear for winter assignments? Cabins configured with gyro stabilization equipment (electrical and hard points) in mind are also a nice bonus to look for! Be ware of tying to pound square pegs into round holes – the Robinson is a economical training helicopter but has some limitations (as published by the company to its owner base) that suggest it is not the ideal aerial photography platform.

Professional and experienced rotorcraft operators dedicated to the unique needs of aerial photography who can “fly the camera” are a limited bunch. Flight schools will often try and augment their business by catering to the photo community; however there are not many 300 hour flight instructors who can tackle your assignment with the skill and attention to detail that a dedicated photo pilot can. Ever since 9/11 airspace access has become a “challenge”, even shoots outside metro areas can attract local law enforcement attention when the operator neglects to liaise with authorities in advance of your flight. Safety equipment acquisition and maintenance expense is one corner no one likes to see cut – insist on the operator supplying the proper gear when flying over demanding terrain such as over water or in the cuds. Always be sure to let your pilot know in advance as much as possible about your assignment, and agree on communication terms before you pull any pitch.

I hope this brief piece has stimulated your thinking about considerations to bear in mind while planning for your next aerial assignment. Feel free to get in touch if I can provide any more detailed information, and fly safe!

Steve Bussmann
Bussmann Aviation
www.heloflights.com