There are many ways to make money today, especially as a small business owner. Different industries have different clients and markets, all of which are applicable for raising revenue. Still, one, often neglected, skill is suitable for many industries—flying a helicopter. There are many career paths for helicopter pilots that are in high demand. Whether it’s in emergency response services, news, construction, aerial tourism, or agriculture, any of these options will lead to a thriving career.
Emergency Response Services Pilot
Police, firefighting, and EMS all require skilled helicopter pilots for their aerial operations. Police aviation use helicopters in police operations. Typically, they offer traffic control, ground support, search and rescue, observe car pursuits, and transport units. Helicopters are optimal for these situations because officers can equip them with night vision, infrared cameras, surveillance cameras, special radio systems, loudspeakers, tear gas dispensers, searchlights, and rescue equipment. Similarly, firefighters utilize aerial power to combat wildfires. Aerial firefighting uses chemicals, water, water enhancing foams and gels, and fire retardants. Helitankers are helicopters fitted with tanks that they fill on the ground or with water siphoned from freshwater sources. Air medical services also use helicopters. They transport people from trauma scenes to healthcare centers or can quickly bring specialist care to more remote locations. Air ambulances are specialty helicopters with the same equipment as a conventional ground ambulance.
TV News Pilot
News stations frequently make use of aerial footage for various coverage. Local traffic, weather, breaking news, and other aerial footage rely on helicopter use. However, some news stations are abandoning or reducing aerial coverage due to high costs.
Aerial Crane Operator
Despite its name, aerial cranes are helicopters designed to lift heavy or awkward loads. Due to their versatility, people primarily use aerial cranes in remote or inaccessible areas. These helicopters use long cables and lift heavy loads to their specific locations. Other than construction, aerial cranes assist those in the logging industry to lift trees out of rugged and hard-to-reach terrain.
Tour Pilot
Aerial tourism is a growing field with lots of business potential. So, consider starting a small aerial tourism business to take advantage of this opportunity. Becoming a trained helicopter pilot means you can fly tourists throughout popular destinations. Anyone can take a guided walking tour, but an aerial tour of a city or national park means optimal business potential. Additionally, companies like Pilot John International are available for airlines to source quality aircraft parts, pilot equipment, ground support equipment, and more to keep their operations running smoothly and safely. Furthermore, you can keep yourself and your passengers safe with the right safety precautions, such as preflight inspections. Remember, piloting requires strict coordination of mental aptitude and physical skill.
Agricultural Pilot
Aerial agriculture is still in high demand due to its reliability for spray application. This refers to spraying crops with pesticides, insecticides, fungicides, and fertilizers to protect their growth. Farmers also need helicopters to seed wide patches of soil.