From their inception, helicopters were designed to lift heavy loads externally and drop them off in hard to reach areas. That remains true to this day for helicopter operations around the world. But what is the importance of external load operations and how are they safely carried out?
(Picture of underslung training by using ballast as a load)
For helicopter pilots, one of the most challenging parts of their job is picking up, carrying and dropping off an underslung load. Also known as external load operations, this type of flying requires extensive training, skill and a little bit of mettle thrown in for good measure. Anything from supplies and even foods can be lifted by an aircraft to assist civilian operations.