HVAC RTU helicopter lift operations are transforming commercial construction and retrofits—especially where tight schedules or structural constraints rule out traditional methods. On February 22, 2025, Fair Lifts executed a high-stakes helicopter lift at Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits, LLC in Las Vegas, partnering with Air Design Systems NV.
Overcoming Challenges at Southern Glazer’s
The operation took place at 8400 S Jones Blvd, a key distribution hub for Southern Glazer’s, North America’s largest beverage alcohol distributor. The goal? Lift and position 14 rooftop HVAC units (each 2,850 lbs) onto a 50-foot-high building addition.
With a combined lift weight of 39,000+ lbs, conventional cranes couldn’t meet the demands. Originally planned for a Saturday, an FAA restriction forced rescheduling. Fair Lifts stepped in, completing the mission the next day via helicopter—ensuring zero delays for the client.
Why Helicopter Lifting Was Essential
Air Design Systems NV, a leading Las Vegas HVAC firm, typically relies on cranes—but this project required a 350-foot reach, beyond their equipment’s capacity. Southern Glazer’s operates on tight schedules, supplying major Las Vegas venues; disruptions weren’t an option. Helicopter lifting provided the speed, precision, and minimal downtime needed.
Aircraft Spotlight: Sikorsky S58T
Sikorsky S58 | Photo: FlareZT / Shutterstock.com
The mission relied on the powerful Sikorsky S58T, a twin-turbine helicopter with a 4,500+ lb external load capacity. Its precision hover control and power margin were critical in Las Vegas’s urban airspace, ensuring safe, efficient placement of all units.
Collaboration & Execution: Fair Lifts’ Expertise
Fair Lifts provided end-to-end aerial lift planning, tackling logistics like FAA clearances, rigging, and real-time pilot-ground crew coordination. All 14 units were placed flawlessly, avoiding disruptions to Southern Glazer’s operations.
Fair Lifts’ Key Contributions:
- Assessed crane limitations and recommended helicopter solutions
- Secured last-minute FAA approvals after initial restrictions
- Mobilized an S58T operator and certified lift crews
- Optimized timing to minimize client impact
Client Feedback: Excellence Under Pressure
Air Design Systems NV praised the operation’s seamless execution and professionalism. “They loved it,” was the team’s verdict—highlighting Fair Lifts’ ability to turn logistical hurdles into success.
Video: Sikorsky S58T HVAC Lift – Southern Glazer’s Las Vegas
Watch as a Sikorsky S58T helicopter expertly lifts a 2,850 lb HVAC unit over Southern Glazer’s distribution warehouse in Las Vegas. In partnership with Air Design Systems NV, this aerial lift showcases precision, power, and efficiency—demonstrating why helicopter HVAC lifts are the smart solution when cranes can’t reach.
Why Choose Fair Lifts for Helicopter HVAC Lifts?
When cranes fall short due to reach, terrain, or time constraints, helicopter HVAC lifting presents a fast, flexible, and cost-effective alternative. Fair Lifts specializes in heavy-lift helicopter logistics and has a proven track record working with HVAC contractors, construction firms, and facility managers across the U.S.
Fair Lifts delivers:
- Expertise in HVAC RTU and heavy-load aerial placements
- FAA-compliant flight planning and certified aircraft
- Nationwide availability with medium to heavy-lift capacity
Contact us today or call 1-800-318-8940 to discuss your next HVAC RTU helicopter lift or explore how Fair Lifts can support your upcoming construction or logistics challenge. We’re here to elevate your operations—literally.