When crane access is impossible, helicopter antenna tower lifts offer the most efficient solution for remote, logistically complex projects. On April 30, 2025, Fair Lifts Helicopter Services successfully completed an antenna installation for Joy Inc. at 20941 Rocky Ridge Lane in Sedro Woolley, Washington. The mission? Remove and replace three heavy antenna frame sections atop a 170-foot cellular tower using precision helicopter lifting.
About the Client: Joy Inc.
A leader in telecommunications infrastructure, Joy Inc. builds and maintains the towers that keep wireless networks running smoothly. Guided by their motto—”Study and Practice the Art of JOY”—the company blends technical expertise with a positive culture. For this project, they needed a lift solution to overcome rugged terrain and install new 5G antenna arrays with pinpoint accuracy.
Project Overview
The task was straightforward: replace three outdated antenna mounts with modern 5G-ready assemblies. Each section weighed approximately 850 lbs, including:
- Primary mounting frame: ~670 lbs
- Two traditional antennas: 100 lbs
- 5G antennas: 103 lbs
- Radios and hardware: Remaining weight
The Bell 206L Longranger III, a reliable workhorse utilized by Fair Lifts, was selected for its agility and lifting capacity—perfect for this mid-weight operation.
Location Challenges: Why a Helicopter Was Essential
The site’s GPS coordinates (48.541497, -122.29655) revealed dense forests and uneven terrain, making crane access impossible. A ground assessment confirmed: “No way for a crane to reach the job site.” This scenario was tailor-made for helicopter lifting, Fair Lifts’ specialty in telecom, energy, and utility sectors.
The Aircraft: Bell 206L Longranger III
Bell 206L Longranger III | Photo: photoggin
The Bell 206L Longranger III excels in construction lifts with:
- Max gross weight: 4,450 lbs
- External load capacity: ~1,200 lbs
- Range: 372 miles
- Engine: Single Allison 250-C30P turbine
Its reliability made it ideal for hoisting each 850-lb frame to the tower’s peak.
Execution: Precision in Every Lift
Fair Lifts’ crew and Joy Inc. technicians meticulously planned each movement. The helicopter performed six precise lifts—three removals and three installations—guided by ground signalers, slings, and taglines to minimize sway. The new 5G antennas were secured flawlessly, enhancing local wireless coverage.
Safety, Coordination, and Professionalism
Safety is non-negotiable at Fair Lifts. Pre-flight checks included:
- Detailed lift plan
- Weather analysis
- Load testing
Despite tight tolerances, the team executed the April 30 deployment incident-free, thanks to seamless coordination between pilots, technicians, and ground crews.
Client Feedback and Results
Joy Inc. praised the operation’s success, noting that helicopter lifting was the only viable option given the site’s challenges. The upgraded 5G-ready antennas will significantly improve connectivity in Sedro Woolley, meeting growing demand for high-speed data.
Bell 206L Longranger III in action
Witness a precision helicopter antenna tower lift for Joy Inc. in Sedro Woolley, WA. This footage captures a Bell 206L Longranger III executing one of the six flawless lifts (three removals and three installations) of 850-lb 5G antenna arrays atop a 170-foot tower—all in rugged, crane-inaccessible terrain. Watch as expert pilots and ground crews synchronize to deliver this complex lift with uncompromising safety.
Why Choose Fair Lifts for Helicopter Lifts?
Fair Lifts specializes in aerial construction logistics where traditional methods fail. Our nationwide services include:
- Nationwide Coverage: Remote or rural, we deliver.
- Versatile Fleet: Light to heavy-lift helicopters.
- End-to-End Management: FAA compliance, site prep, and load handling.
- Proven Expertise: Dozens of successful telecom lifts.
For Joy Inc., our partnership ensured a smooth, impossible-made-possible project.
Partner with Fair Lifts for Specialized Aerial Lift Support
At Fair Lifts, we deliver expert helicopter lift services designed to solve the toughest infrastructure challenges. From tower construction to antenna replacements in remote or hard-to-access areas, our team provides safe, efficient, and highly coordinated aerial support for every project.
This recent tower lift for Joy Inc. highlights our ability to execute precise vertical transport where cranes can’t go. If your next job requires altitude, accuracy, and logistical finesse, we’re ready to fly.
Contact us today—or call us directly at 1-800-318-8940—to learn how our tailored helicopter services can elevate your next tower or infrastructure project.