Precision aerial lift operations are essential when upgrading critical communications infrastructure in elevated or constrained environments. On December 17, 2025, Fair Lifts completed a helicopter-assisted telecom tower installation at the Mount Swap site near South Vinemont, Alabama, supporting Next Edge Networks with the removal and replacement of key tower components.
This project involved a 235 foot guyed telecommunications tower located in Falkville, Alabama. The scope required lifting and lowering multiple tower components while maintaining operational safety and minimizing site disruption. Fair Lifts was selected for its regional proximity, specialized lift experience, and proven ability to execute complex aerial construction projects across the Southeast.
Next Edge Networks Partnership
A Next Edge team working at a job site. | Photo: nextedgenetworks.com
Next Edge Networks is a national leader in wireless infrastructure services, delivering comprehensive solutions for network deployment, upgrades, and maintenance. Their work enables reliable cellular and data coverage across urban, suburban, and rural markets. For the Mount Swap project, the company required an aerial partner for time-sensitive execution. The upgrade needed minimal ground footprint and rapid turnaround.
Fair Lifts worked directly with Rodger Michael and Alex Smykun for the operation. Close coordination between flight crews, ground rigging teams, and the client ensured that every lift was executed according to plan with clear communication throughout.
Telecom Site Mount Swap
New telecom antenna mounts and radio equipment staged on the ground prior to installation, prepared for helicopter lifting as part of the Next Edge Networks tower upgrade project.
The Mount Swap telecom site required the removal of aging antenna mounts and the installation of new mounts, antennas, and radio equipment. The existing mounts weighed approximately 1,000 pounds, while the new mounts weighed up to 1,200 pounds. The work included lifting three sections to the tower and lowering three sections from the structure.
While ground-based crane access was available at the site, helicopter lift offered distinct operational advantages. Aerial placement reduced ground congestion, eliminated the need for extensive crane setup and breakdown, and significantly shortened the overall timeline. The helicopter approach also minimized impact to surrounding terrain, access roads, and nearby properties.
Aerial Lift Specifications
- Lifted components: Tower mounts, antennas, and radio equipment
- Number of units raised: 3
- Number of units lowered: 3
- Component weight range: 1,000 to 1,200 pounds
- Maximum single lift weight: 1,200 pounds
SA 315B Lama Platform
Aérospatiale SA 315B Lama | Photo: Calfo
Fair Lifts utilized the Aérospatiale SA 315B Lama for this operation due to its exceptional external lift performance and high-altitude handling characteristics. The Lama is recognized throughout the industry for its powerful engine, light airframe, and precise hover control, making it ideally suited for telecom and utility lift operations.
For tower work requiring controlled placement of antennas and mounts at height, the Lama provides pilots with outstanding visibility and responsive handling. This control is critical when aligning components onto narrow tower structures. Ground crews and climbers coordinate final positioning during each lift.
Site Planning and Coordination
Pre-project planning included a detailed site evaluation to identify safe flight paths, load sequencing, and staging areas. The team conducted thorough reconnaissance to assess terrain, obstacles, and approach corridors. They established a staging area that enabled efficient operations while maintaining safe clearances from the tower structure and surrounding features.
By leveraging helicopter access, Fair Lifts avoided the need for extended road closures or heavy equipment mobilization. This approach allowed the client to keep the installation on schedule while maintaining safety and compliance with site-specific requirements.
Lift Operations Execution
tower technician coordinates placement of antenna equipment during a helicopter telecom tower installation, highlighting close air to ground teamwork and safety focused execution.
On the morning of December 17th, flight crews and ground teams completed safety briefings, load checks, and rigging using certified slings and hardware. Weight and balance were verified before each lift sequence began.
The pilot positioned the aircraft over each pickup point, flying components directly to the tower where climbers guided final placement. Continuous radio communication supported precise execution, allowing the removal and installation work to be completed in approximately four hours under favorable weather conditions, without incident.
Operational Results
The SA 315B Lama hovers steadily while transporting tower mounted antenna assemblies to the Mount Swap telecom site, showcasing controlled long line lift operations over rural Alabama terrain.
The Mount Swap telecom upgrade was completed successfully with new mounts, antennas, and radios installed as planned. These upgrades enhanced network coverage and reliability across the region.
After completion, Next Edge Networks shared positive feedback on the installation. They praised the professionalism and efficiency of the Fair Lifts team. The project highlights the value of experienced aerial lift providers for telecom infrastructure work.
Aerial Telecom Installation Expertise
Fair Lifts provides telecommunications operators nationwide with specialized helicopter lift services for infrastructure projects. From antenna swaps and radio upgrades to full tower construction, the company brings aviation expertise and operational discipline to every engagement.
To discuss a helicopter assisted lift plan for your next project, call Jenessa Mercer at (951) 588 5887 or visit our contact page today.