Vertical Reference Training

[Whistlerpilot]

Can any one reccommend an outfit to get some long line training, preferably within the pacific northwest. I'm hoping to keep costs down by using a piston machine and want to do this in the next few weeks.

 

Thanks,

 

Eric

[67november]

send a PM to west coaster, he works on Vancouver Island. he should be able to steer you in the right direction.

[copter doctor]

I know Precision in Newberg Oregon offers courses in the 300c or 500D. should be link on the this website. Not in Canada, but not too far away.

[Paisley]

PM me. I can help you.

[Goldy]

In Los Angeles you have two choices, one is in a R44, the other in a 300..

[heligirl03]

I believe Hillsboro has a R22 with a hook...

[Whistlerpilot]

Thanks to all who came up with leads. I found an outfit based in Snohomish with a really top notch instructor Jason Moorhead who is a CP with lots of operational experience. If anyone is interested I will let you know how it goes, I'm flying on Wed.

 

Thanks all,

[Goldy]

I have zero long line, but I know a 1500 hour CFI who just started his training. Lets just say it aint easy, so dont feel bad if it takes a bit to get used to.

 

Goldy

[Whistlerpilot]

Wow, did 2.6 hours of training with the 50 ft line today. It's pretty intense, very focused just like learning to hover all over again. It calls for steady hands. It was very humbling, but Jason is a great instructor and it went as well as I could have expected. Looking forward to the 100 ft line next time. Warm clothing, gloves, helmet made it bearable in the near freezing temps leaning out the machine. What an experience! Can't wait for the next lesson.

[rick1128]

I recently did some VR training in Van Nuys. Knowledgeable instructor. However, I did it in a machine I was not familiar with so it was a little harder than it had to be for me. It is harder than it looks, but I feel it can make you a better helicopter pilot. I would suggest you do it in a machine you are comfortable with. It will make it a better learning experience for you.

[helido]

Los Angeles Helicopters in Long Beach, California, ofers a 10-day long line training course. The length of the rope is 200 ft. The course is taught by a top-notch instructor who flies for Columbia Helicopters.

[Whistlerpilot]

Did the second session today of 2.3 hours at Snohomish and graduated to the 100 foot line. It was rainy and windy so very real life conditions. I found the longer line is steadier, but it's harder to see how far off the ground the load is. What an amazing experience when it starts to come together. Tons of focus and concentration but very satisfying to get comfortable flying while leaning out and building a sight picture. Jason is an excellent instructor.