What Is an Aerial Crane or Heavy Lift Pilot?
Aerial crane pilots operate specialized helicopters capable of lifting extremely heavy loads for construction, infrastructure, logging, firefighting, and industrial operations.
These pilots help move:
- Construction materials
- Utility towers
- HVAC systems
- Heavy equipment
- Firefighting supplies
- Logging materials
Roles and Responsibilities
Heavy lift pilots:
- Operate precision helicopter lifts
- Coordinate with ground crews
- Transport oversized loads
- Conduct firefighting support missions
- Perform infrastructure installation operations
This work requires exceptional precision and communication skills.
Work Environment
Heavy lift pilots often work:
- At construction sites
- In mountainous terrain
- Near infrastructure projects
- In wildfire response zones
Common helicopters include:
- Sikorsky S-64 Skycrane
- CH-47 Chinook
- Bell 214
- Erickson Air-Crane helicopters
Expected Salary
Estimated salary ranges:
- Entry-level heavy lift pilot: $80,000–$120,000
- Experienced heavy lift captain: $150,000–$300,000+
Salary Sources:
- Helicopter industry recruitment data
- Erickson Incorporated careers
Education and Training
Most pilots need:
- Commercial helicopter license
- External load certification
- Advanced helicopter experience
- Precision operations training
- Firefighting operational experience (sometimes)
Notable Employers
- Erickson Incorporated
- Columbia Helicopters
- Heavy construction aviation operators
- Firefighting aviation contractors
Why Students Choose This Career
Students often enjoy:
- Helicopter operations
- Construction support missions
- High-skill flying
- Technical precision
- Infrastructure projects
FAQs
What is an aerial crane helicopter?
It is a specialized helicopter designed to lift and transport heavy loads.
Do heavy lift pilots support firefighting?
Many aerial crane operators assist with wildfire suppression.
Is heavy lift aviation specialized?
Yes. It requires advanced helicopter training and operational precision.
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