Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, with your host Halsey Schider!This podcast is for helicopter pilots, maintainers, and enthusiasts! Whether you've been in the...
Episode #112 - VR meets reality: Fabi Riesen, CEO of Loft Dynamics - The Helicopter Podcast
Send us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this episode, host Halsey Schider dives into the transformative world of aviation simulation with Fabi Riesen, CEO of Loft Dynamics. Fabi and his team at Loft Dynamics are revolutionizing how pilots train, bringing a fresh, immersive approach to flight simulation that leverages cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) technology. The conversation begins with Fabi sharing his early fascination with technology and how a simple VR headset sparked the idea that would eventually lead to Loft Dynamics. Fueled by his passion for innovation, Fabi and his team seized the unique challenges of the COVID-19 era, using the time to go full force into developing advanced, immersive simulators that have now become some of the most realistic training tools in the industry.Loft Dynamics has recently made headlines with its impressive expansion and new partnerships, including collaborations aimed at enhancing global pilot training and meeting the increasing demand for qualified pilots worldwide. Their simulators, praised for realism and efficiency, offer an eco-friendly, cost-effective alternative to traditional training, helping to reduce emissions and address critical gaps in training resources. Throughout this insightful discussion, Halsey and Fabi explore Loft Dynamics’ mission to make aviation safer, more accessible, and responsive to the needs of a rapidly evolving industry. They discuss the immense impact these VR-based simulators could have, from cutting operational costs for training providers to offering pilots more frequent, hands-on practice in scenarios that challenge their skills and judgment.Tune in to hear Fabi’s inspiring journey and learn about the game-changing advancements Loft Dynamics is bringing to aviation. This episode offers an exciting glimpse into the future of flight training, where VR meets reality, and innovation is paving the way for a new era in pilot education. Don’t miss this enlightening episode of The Helicopter Podcast!Thank you to our sponsors Hillsboro Heli Academy, Precision Aviation Group and Sellacopter.
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Episode #111 - Insights from the Helicopter Institute - Randy Rowles - The Helicopter Podcast
Send us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider sits down with Randy Rowles, a veteran aviator and founder of the Helicopter Institute. With over 40 years in the industry, Randy shares insights on aviation training, mentorship, and the entrepreneurial drive that shaped his career.The discussion highlights the critical need for experienced instructors, and the evolving role of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in pilot certification. Randy also reflects on many interesting topics, from the pivotal moment of solo flight sign-offs, to supporting Afghan pilots transitioning to U.S. aviation, and his thoughts on adapting training methods to meet modern safety and technological standards.For practical lessons and inspiring stories from one of aviation’s most dedicated contributors, tune into this episode of The Helicopter Podcast!Thank you to our sponsors Hillsboro Heli Academy, Robinson Helicopters and Sellacopter.
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Episode #110 - Fredrik Kämpfe, chair of the European Helicopter Association – The Helicopter Podcast
Send us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!Host Halsey Schider engages in a compelling conversation with Fredrik Kämpfe, chair of the European Helicopter Association (EHA). Fredrik shares insights into the collaborative efforts between EHA and the European Rotors event, highlighting their joint mission to advocate for and advance the European helicopter industry.Fredrik outlines his role within EHA, emphasizing the organization’s dedication to representing the helicopter community across 13 European countries. He discusses EHA’s proactive engagement with operators and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to address key industry challenges, including regulatory developments, safety enhancements, and sustainability initiatives. Under Fredrik’s leadership, EHA has been instrumental in organizing events like European Rotors, which serve as platforms for industry stakeholders to collaborate, share knowledge, and showcase innovations. These efforts aim to foster a unified and progressive rotorcraft community in Europe. Tune in to this insightful episode to learn more about EHA’s initiatives and Fredrik’s vision for the future of the European helicopter industry.Thank you to our sponsors Vertical Aviation International, Robinson Helicopters and Sellacopter.
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Episode #109 - Helicopter Pilot turned Entrepreneur: Shawn Johnson - The Helicopter Podcast
Send us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, Halsey Schider sits down with Shawn Johnson, a seasoned helicopter pilot and entrepreneur, to discuss his dynamic career journey and insights into the helicopter industry. Together, they explore Shawn's path from flight school to corporate aviation, his experiences operating in the Gulf, and the decision-making challenges faced in high-stakes environments. The conversation looks into key aviation themes, including the importance of rigorous safety protocols, the intricacies of flying in diverse operational settings, and the evolving role of innovation in the helicopter sector.Additionally, Halsey and Shawn examine the entrepreneurial opportunities available to pilots and the value of self-advocacy in advancing one’s career. Tune into this episode of The Helicopter Podcast for valuable lessons to aspiring pilots, entrepreneurs, and aviation enthusiasts, alike!Follow Shawn's podcast at Pay or Quit.Thank you to our sponsors Metro Aviation, Precision Aviation Group and Vertical Aviation International.
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Episode 108 - Podcast Recap! A look back on 2024 - The Helicopter Podcast
Send us a textWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this special end-of-year wrap-up episode of The Helicopter Podcast, Halsey Schider reflects on an incredible year, celebrating the journey to 100 episodes! He revisits standout moments and conversations with notable guests such as aerial coordinator Kevin LaRosa, Red Bull pilot Aaron Fitzgerald, and Robinson test pilot Chris Smith. Halsey shares his gratitude for the loyal listeners and sponsors who have supported the podcast's growth and provides a glimpse into the exciting plans ahead for 2025. Tune into this episode for a heartfelt celebration of this year's milestones, and a look toward the future of the community!Thank you to our sponsors Hillsboro Heli Academy, Robinson Helicopters and Sellacopter.
Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, with your host Halsey Schider!This podcast is for helicopter pilots, maintainers, and enthusiasts! Whether you've been in the industry for 30 years or are just someone that loves helicopters, this podcast is for you! The podcasts will feature guests from a wide array of industry sectors to have casual conversation, answer questions, give sound advice, and talk shop. Finally, a podcast produced by helicopter professionals for all types of helicopter people!