When it comes to construction materials heavy lift projects in remote or challenging terrain, Fair Lifts Helicopter Services delivers precision, efficiency, and expert consultation. This was evident in our recent project with M.E. Tafoya, a respected construction company that primarily specializes in roofing and crane services. They required a reliable aerial solution to replace an 800-foot-long sidewalk at an FAA antenna site in the Franklin Mountains, Texas.
Project Overview: Sidewalk Replacement in a Remote Mountain Location
Kaman K-1200 “K-MAX” lifting construction materials utilizing the ‘Super Sack’
The project site, located at 2741 Gunnison Dr, El Paso, TX 79904, presented significant logistical challenges. Due to the site’s elevation and rugged terrain, traditional ground-based construction methods were impractical. M.E. Tafoya needed an experienced team to transport heavy materials, demolish and remove existing infrastructure, and lift necessary supplies to the mountaintop.
Fair Lifts stepped in to coordinate the aerial logistics, selecting the powerful Kaman K-1200 “K-MAX” helicopter to handle the lifts. The project required not only lifting heavy materials up to the site but also bringing demolition debris back down—a task that required both precision and efficiency.
Pre-Lift Site Visit and Consultation
At Fair Lifts, we do more than just fly helicopters—we provide strategic guidance to ensure the success of every lift. Before beginning the operation, our team conducted a thorough site visit to assess the best staging areas for equipment and materials. One critical decision was the use of Super Sacks for material transport.
Traditional wooden pallets were considered, but given the irregular shapes of the demolished sidewalk pieces, pallets would have been unstable and prone to breaking. Our consultation led to the adoption of Super Sacks, which offered a durable and secure method of lifting loose or irregularly shaped debris. This change significantly improved efficiency and safety for the on-site crew.
Lift Execution: Transporting Heavy Construction Materials
K-MAX lifting construction materials to the site
The helicopter lifts took place in two phases:
- Phase 1: Equipment and Material Delivery (November 13, 2023) – Fair Lifts transported materials and equipment to the site, ensuring the crew had everything needed for the sidewalk construction.
- Phase 2: Demolition and Cleanup (March 2024) – Once the new sidewalk and handrails were installed, the helicopter was used to remove old materials and return equipment to the staging area.
Materials Lifted:
- Quikrete (concrete) – 80lb bags, totaling 75,200 lbs
- Water – 5,800 lbs
- Existing asphalt walkway – 49,300 lbs
- Subbase material – 17,500 lbs
- Dumpsters, equipment, and other materials – 50,000 lbs
The Power of the Kaman K-1200 “K-MAX”
Kaman K-1200 “K-MAX”
For this heavy lift project, we utilized the Kaman K-1200 “K-MAX”, a helicopter specifically designed for external load operations. Known for its precision, high lift capacity, and efficiency, the K-MAX was the ideal aircraft for transporting materials in and out of the challenging mountain location. With a max lift capacity of 6,000 lbs, it efficiently handled multiple loads throughout the project timeline.
Seamless Execution and Client Satisfaction
The result? A successful, streamlined operation that exceeded client expectations. Maria, the owner of M.E. Tafoya, shared her feedback:
“The process was flawless. Kevin’s piloting SKILLS WERE PERFECTION. Thank you.”
Our team at Fair Lifts takes pride in delivering not only expert helicopter services but also valuable consulting and logistical support. By working closely with M.E. Tafoya, we ensured that their team had the resources, planning, and execution necessary to complete the sidewalk replacement project efficiently and safely.
Why Choose Fair Lifts for Construction Materials Heavy Lift Projects?
KMAX lifting construction materials
Fair Lifts Helicopter Services specializes in heavy lift solutions tailored for construction, infrastructure, and remote site operations. Our expertise extends beyond flying—our team assists in planning, staging, and selecting the right equipment to ensure project success.
When ground-based transport isn’t an option, our aerial lift services provide a safer, faster, and more cost-effective alternative. From lifting construction materials to assisting with demolition cleanup, Fair Lifts is your trusted partner for precision aerial logistics.
Need a Heavy Lift Solution?
If you have a project that requires heavy lift helicopter services, reach out to Fair Lifts today. We provide customized solutions for construction, infrastructure, and logistics in challenging environments.
Contact Fair Lifts Helicopter Services today or call Jenessa Mercer at 951-588-5887 directly to learn more about how we can support your needs.