Glossary of Helicopter Terminology

Useful definitions to assist you in navigating our website and grasping the intricacies of helicopter services.

Fair Lifts Helicopter Services

Glossary of Helicopter Terminology

air Lifts Helicopter Cargo Services

Useful definitions to assist you in navigating our website and grasping the intricacies of helicopter services.

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Welcome to the Fair Lifts Helicopter Services Glossary

This comprehensive collection of common helicopter terms has been curated to enhance your understanding of the fascinating world of aviation. Whether you're a seasoned aviation enthusiast or new to the industry, this glossary will prove invaluable in deciphering the technical language often encountered when exploring our website.

Here at Fair Lifts, we believe in empowering our customers with knowledge, allowing them to make informed decisions regarding their helicopter service needs. By familiarizing yourself with the definitions found in this glossary, you will gain a deeper understanding of the various aspects of helicopter operations, from the intricate mechanics of rotor systems to the essential navigation instruments that ensure safe and efficient flights.

Our team of experts has carefully compiled this glossary to serve as a reference point, enabling you to navigate our website with ease and confidence. Whether you're seeking information on our helicopter charter services, aerial photography options, or utility operations, this glossary will provide the necessary context to comprehend the specific terminology used within these areas.

We invite you to explore the diverse range of terms and definitions contained within this glossary, as it will undoubtedly prove useful and informative in your interactions with our website and throughout your exploration of helicopter services. Fair Lifts is dedicated to delivering exceptional helicopter experiences, and we believe that an informed customer is a satisfied customer.

Begin your journey into the world of helicopters with our comprehensive glossary, and unlock a new level of understanding in aviation.

Glossary Quick Links:


Group Helicopter Charters
Group Helicopter Charters

Essential Terms for Helicopter Charters

Are you considering a helicopter charter for your next adventure or business trip? To help you navigate the world of helicopter charters with confidence, we have compiled a list of 15 essential terms that will empower you with a deeper understanding of this exciting form of transportation. From aircraft types to safety procedures, this glossary will equip you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions and fully enjoy your helicopter charter experience with Fair Lifts Helicopter Services.

Helicopter Charter: A service that provides exclusive use of a helicopter for a specific flight or series of flights, tailored to the client's requirements and schedule.

Rotorcraft: An aircraft that generates lift through rotating blades or rotors, such as helicopters and autogyros.

Turbine Engine: A type of engine commonly used in helicopters that converts the energy from burning fuel into rotational motion to power the rotor system.

Single-Engine Helicopter: A helicopter equipped with a single turbine engine, typically used for short-distance flights and sightseeing tours.

Twin-Engine Helicopter: A helicopter equipped with two turbine engines, offering increased safety and performance capabilities, often utilized for longer-range flights and transportation of heavier loads.

Executive Helicopter: A helicopter designed and equipped with luxurious amenities, providing comfort and privacy for executives and VIPs during their flights.

Airport Transfer: Refers to the transportation service provided between two airports or between an airport and a specific location such as a hotel, helipad, or private property. When facilitated by a service like Fair Lifts, an airport transfer would involve the use of a helicopter, offering a fast, direct, and private mode of transportation.

Landing Zone (LZ): A designated area where a helicopter can land and take off safely, often prepared and secured in advance for various operations.

Hotel Transfer: Refers to a helicopter transportation service between an airport and a hotel. Hotel Transfers can be particularly beneficial for corporate and private travelers who need to move swiftly and efficiently from their arrival airport to their hotel accommodation.

Passenger Manifest: A document listing the names and details of all passengers on a helicopter charter flight, including any special requirements or preferences.

Dead-leg: The return flight of a helicopter without passengers or cargo after completing a charter assignment.

Weight and Balance: The process of ensuring that the weight distribution of passengers, cargo, and fuel is within safe limits for proper helicopter operation.

Air Traffic Control (ATC): A service provided by ground-based controllers who guide and monitor aircraft movements to ensure safe and efficient operation in controlled airspace.

Hover Taxi: A maneuver in which a helicopter hovers a few feet above the ground while moving horizontally, commonly used for short-distance repositioning on the ground.

Vertical Reference Landing: A technique used by helicopters to land on terrain where visual references, such as markers or guides, are used to maintain vertical alignment during descent.

FBO (Fixed Base Operator): A facility at an airport that offers a range of services to private and charter aircraft, including fueling, maintenance, and passenger amenities.

Safety Briefing: A pre-flight briefing conducted by the pilot or crew, which includes important safety information, emergency procedures, and the location of safety equipment on board.

By familiarizing yourself with these essential terms, you will be well-prepared to embark on an exceptional helicopter charter experience. Fair Lifts Helicopter Services is committed to providing you with outstanding service and ensuring your journey is smooth, safe, and unforgettable.


Helicopter Lift Services
Construction Helicopter

15 Key Terms for Heavy Lift Helicopters and Construction Lifts

When it comes to heavy lift operations and construction projects, helicopters play a crucial role in transporting equipment, materials, and personnel to remote or challenging locations. To help you navigate the world of heavy lift helicopters and construction lifts, we have compiled a list of 15 key terms that will enhance your understanding of this specialized field. Whether you're involved in heavy construction, infrastructure development, or logistical support, this glossary will provide you with valuable insights to optimize your operations with Fair Lifts Helicopter Services.

Heavy Lift Helicopter: A powerful helicopter designed and equipped with specialized lifting capabilities to transport heavy loads, such as construction equipment, building materials, or large-scale infrastructure components.

External Load: The cargo or equipment carried externally by a helicopter, often secured using a long-line or cargo hook system during heavy lift operations.

Long-Line: A strong cable or rope used to suspend and control loads beneath a helicopter during external load operations.

Cargo Hook: A device attached to the underside of a helicopter, designed to secure and release external loads during heavy lift operations.

Load Capacity: The maximum weight that a helicopter can safely lift and transport, determined by factors such as engine power, rotor system, and structural integrity.

Sling Load: The cargo or load that is suspended beneath a helicopter using a long-line or cargo hook system during external load operations.

Precision Placement: The precise positioning of an external load or cargo in a specific location, often required during construction projects or when transporting delicate equipment.

Skycrane: A type of heavy lift helicopter specifically designed for vertical heavy lift operations, featuring a large external load capacity and exceptional lifting capabilities.

Heliport: A designated area, often on elevated structures or remote sites, where helicopters can take off, land, and park during heavy lift operations or construction projects.

Remote Site Access: The ability of helicopters to provide transportation and access to remote or otherwise inaccessible construction sites, allowing for efficient logistics and reduced construction time.

Air Crane: A versatile heavy lift helicopter designed for various applications, including aerial firefighting, disaster response, and construction projects.

Load Chart: A graphical representation provided by the helicopter manufacturer that specifies the maximum allowable load for different configurations, taking into account factors such as altitude and temperature.

Construction Lift: The process of using a helicopter to transport construction materials, equipment, and personnel to and from construction sites, particularly in remote or challenging locations.

Rigging: The process of preparing and securing loads to be lifted by a helicopter, including the use of specialized equipment, slings, and attachment points.

Erection and Assembly: The process of assembling large structures or components at construction sites using heavy lift helicopters, enabling rapid construction and minimizing the need for ground-based equipment.

By familiarizing yourself with these key terms, you will gain valuable insights into the world of heavy lift helicopters and construction lifts. Fair Lifts Helicopter Services is committed to providing exceptional solutions for your heavy lift and construction needs, ensuring efficient logistics, safe operations, and successful project outcomes.


Helicopter Instruments
Helicopter Instruments

Navigation Instruments and Mechanical Systems Glossary

Understanding the intricate navigation instruments and mechanical systems employed in helicopters is essential for safe and efficient flight operations. In this glossary section, we present a comprehensive collection of terms related to helicopter navigation instruments and mechanical systems. Explore the definitions below to deepen your understanding of systems used in the world of helicopters.

Attitude Indicator: A navigation instrument that displays the orientation of the aircraft in relation to the horizon, helping pilots maintain proper aircraft attitude.

Altimeter: An instrument that measures the altitude of an aircraft above a reference point, typically calibrated to display altitude in feet or meters.

Airspeed Indicator: A device that indicates the speed at which an aircraft is moving through the air, providing crucial information for maintaining safe flight parameters.

Vertical Speed Indicator (VSI): An instrument that shows the rate of climb or descent of an aircraft in feet per minute, enabling pilots to control the aircraft's vertical movement.

Heading Indicator: A gyroscopic instrument that displays the aircraft's heading or direction of travel, providing essential information for navigation and maintaining desired flight paths.

Turn Coordinator: An instrument that assists pilots in maintaining coordinated turns by displaying the rate of turn and indicating whether the aircraft is banking correctly.

Magnetic Compass: A traditional navigation instrument that uses the Earth's magnetic field to indicate the aircraft's heading, offering a primary reference for basic navigation.

Autopilot System: A sophisticated electronic system that automates various aspects of aircraft control, relieving pilots of some manual tasks and enhancing flight stability.

Flight Management System (FMS): An advanced computer-based navigation system that integrates various data sources to aid in flight planning, route management, and aircraft control.

Rotor System: The collection of rotating blades and associated components that generate lift and enable the helicopter to hover, ascend, descend, and maneuver.

Collective Pitch Control: A mechanical control system that allows the pilot to change the pitch angle of all rotor blades simultaneously, controlling the helicopter's vertical movement.

Cyclic Pitch Control: A mechanical control system that enables the pilot to change the pitch angle of individual rotor blades during each rotation, controlling the helicopter's horizontal movement.

Anti-Torque System: The system responsible for counteracting the torque generated by the main rotor, typically achieved through a tail rotor or fenestron system.

Main Rotor Head: The assembly that connects the rotor blades to the helicopter's main transmission system, allowing for collective and cyclic control inputs.

Hydraulic System: A system that utilizes hydraulic fluid to transmit power and control various helicopter components, such as the landing gear, flight controls, and rotor systems.

By familiarizing yourself with these essential terms related to navigation instruments and mechanical systems, you will gain a deeper understanding of the complex technologies that enable safe and efficient helicopter flight. Fair Lifts Helicopter Services is dedicated to providing exceptional helicopter experiences, backed by cutting-edge navigation systems and meticulously maintained mechanical components.


Environmental Survey Charters
Environmental Survey Charters

Environmental Protection Glossary

Helicopters offer unique capabilities in various environmental protection efforts, ranging from agricultural applications and exploration to aerial surveying and wildlife conservation. This glossary section aims to familiarize you with key terms related to environmental protection in the context of helicopter operations. By understanding these terms, you will gain insights into the vital role helicopters play in safeguarding our environment. Explore the definitions below to enhance your understanding of environmental protection applications in the world of helicopters.

Aerial Surveying: The use of helicopters to capture high-resolution imagery or data from the air for mapping, monitoring, and assessing the environment, including vegetation, land features, and water bodies.

Crop Dusting: The practice of applying agricultural chemicals, such as fertilizers or pesticides, to crops from helicopters to enhance crop health and yield.

Firefighting Helicopter: A helicopter specifically equipped with water tanks, foam systems, or fire-retardant chemicals used to combat and suppress wildfires.

Water Bombing: The technique of dropping water or fire retardants onto fires from helicopters, aiding in fire suppression efforts and preventing the spread of wildfires.

Environmental Monitoring: The process of using helicopters to collect data and monitor environmental factors such as air quality, water quality, wildlife populations, and habitat conditions.

Wildlife Conservation: The protection and preservation of wildlife populations and their habitats through various measures, including helicopter-based surveys, tracking, and relocation efforts.

Geophysical Surveys: The use of helicopters to conduct geophysical studies, such as magnetic, gravity, or electromagnetic surveys, to gather information about subsurface structures and resources.

LIDAR: Light Detection and Ranging, a remote sensing technology that uses laser light to measure distances and create highly detailed three-dimensional maps of terrain or vegetation.

Oil Spill Response: Helicopter operations employed in the event of an oil spill to monitor the spill, conduct aerial assessments, and aid in the deployment of containment booms or dispersants.

Wildlife Tracking: The practice of using helicopters equipped with specialized tracking equipment, such as radio transmitters or GPS collars, to locate and monitor the movements of wildlife populations.

Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs): Studies conducted to evaluate the potential environmental effects of proposed projects, such as infrastructure development or resource extraction, often involving helicopter-based data collection.

Precision Agriculture: The use of helicopters equipped with advanced sensors and imaging systems to assess crop health, optimize irrigation and fertilization, and improve overall agricultural efficiency.

Ecosystem Restoration: Helicopter-assisted projects aimed at restoring degraded ecosystems, such as reseeding native vegetation, erosion control measures, and habitat enhancement for endangered species.

Land Demarcation: The process of precisely marking or defining the boundaries of land parcels, often using aerial surveying techniques with helicopters to establish accurate legal boundaries.

Legal Boundary: The officially recognized demarcation that establishes the limits or extent of a property, as defined by relevant laws and regulations.

Aircare & Growsafe: Industry-standard programs and certifications that ensure safe and responsible aerial application of agricultural chemicals, focusing on environmental protection and operator competence.

CCA Part 137: The regulatory standard established by the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) under Transport Canada, which outlines the rules and requirements for aerial application operations in Canada.

National Agricultural Aviation Association: An organization that represents and supports the agricultural aviation industry, providing resources, training, and advocacy for safe and efficient aerial application practices.

Professional Aerial Applicators Support System (PASS): A system that provides critical safety information and resources to professional aerial applicators, promoting safe operations and environmental stewardship.

VTEM: Versatile Time-Domain Electromagnetic, a geophysical survey method that uses helicopter-borne electromagnetic sensors to detect and map subsurface conductive materials.

ZTEM: Z-Axis Tipper Electromagnetic, a geophysical survey method that uses helicopter-borne electromagnetic sensors to detect and map subsurface conductive materials.

Heli-Logging Terms:

Bore: A logging term that refers to the process of drilling holes into tree trunks to facilitate the insertion of cables or other equipment for helicopter-assisted logging operations.

Grapple: A specialized mechanical device attached to the end of a helicopter's long-line or cargo hook, used to grip and lift logs or other heavy loads during heli-logging operations.

Topping: A heli-logging technique that involves removing the upper portion of trees, typically for forest management purposes or to obtain valuable timber.

By familiarizing yourself with these additional terms related to environmental protection, land demarcation, agricultural aviation, and heli-logging operations, you will gain a broader understanding of the diverse applications of helicopters in preserving our environment and supporting various industries. Fair Lifts Helicopter Services remains committed to delivering exceptional aerial solutions while prioritizing environmental sustainability and responsible operations.


Helo High Rise Team
Emergency Response

Emergency Helicopter Services Glossary

During emergencies, helicopters serve as critical lifelines, providing swift and efficient transportation, medical assistance, and disaster response capabilities. In this glossary section, we present key terms related to emergency helicopter services, including air ambulance operations and natural disaster response. Understanding these terms is essential for comprehending the vital role helicopters play in emergency situations. Explore the definitions below to gain insights into the specialized field of emergency helicopter services with Fair Lifts Helicopter Services.

Air Ambulance: A helicopter equipped and staffed to provide rapid medical transportation for critically ill or injured patients, often equipped with advanced life support systems.

Medevac: Short for "medical evacuation," the process of transporting patients by helicopter for urgent medical care and treatment.

Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS): Specialized helicopter services dedicated to providing emergency medical care, transport, and rescue operations, often staffed by paramedics and medical professionals.

Search and Rescue (SAR): Helicopter operations focused on locating, rescuing, and extracting individuals in distress or emergency situations, such as lost hikers, stranded climbers, or boating accidents.

Disaster Response: Helicopter services mobilized in the aftermath of natural disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, or wildfires, to support evacuation, supply delivery, and search and rescue efforts.

Humanitarian Aid: Helicopter operations involved in delivering essential supplies, medical assistance, and relief support to areas affected by humanitarian crises or emergencies.

Incident Command System (ICS): A standardized management system used by emergency response agencies to coordinate and control helicopter and ground-based operations during incidents or disasters.

Vertical Extraction: The process of lifting individuals or patients vertically from a confined or inaccessible area using a helicopter's hoist or winching system.

Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): A trained medical professional who provides emergency medical care and assistance, often accompanying patients during air ambulance flights.

External Lifesaving Equipment: Rescue equipment, such as rescue baskets or stretchers, specifically designed to be attached to a helicopter's external load system for the transport of patients or survivors.

Night Vision Goggles (NVG): Specialized goggles that enhance visibility in low-light conditions, enabling helicopter pilots and crew to operate during nighttime emergency missions.

Helipad: A designated area, often located at hospitals or emergency response centers, specifically designed and marked for helicopter landing and takeoff during medical emergencies.

Rapid Response Team: A highly trained and specialized team of medical professionals, often including doctors, nurses, and paramedics, that can be rapidly deployed via helicopter to emergency scenes.

Mass Casualty Incident (MCI): A situation where the number of casualties exceeds the resources normally available for immediate response, often requiring helicopter support for swift triage and transportation.

Incident Management Team (IMT): A team of experienced personnel responsible for managing and coordinating resources during large-scale emergencies, including helicopter assets and operations.

By familiarizing yourself with these emergency helicopter service terms, you will gain a deeper understanding of the vital role helicopters play in air ambulance operations, disaster response, and humanitarian aid. Fair Lifts Helicopter Services is dedicated to providing reliable and rapid emergency helicopter services, ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals in critical situations.


Reach New Heights with Fair Lifts Helicopter Services

Are you ready to elevate your project or experience with the power and versatility of helicopter services? Look no further than Fair Lifts Helicopter Services, your trusted partner in aerial solutions. Our team of helicopter experts is here to assist you every step of the way, from initial consultation to project completion. Contact us today for a free quote tailored to your specific needs and requirements.

Why choose Fair Lifts? With our extensive network of state-of-the-art helicopters, manned by experienced and highly skilled pilots and crew, we deliver unmatched safety, reliability, and efficiency. Whether you're embarking on a heavy lift operation, construction project, or seeking an exhilarating helicopter charter, we have the expertise and resources to make it happen seamlessly.

At Fair Lifts, we understand that no two projects are alike. That's why we take the time to listen to your unique needs and provide customized solutions that align with your goals. Our knowledgeable team will work closely with you to design the perfect helicopter service, optimizing logistics, and delivering exceptional results.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the benefits of helicopter services. Call our helicopter experts today at 1-800-318-8940 for a complimentary consultation and personalized quote. Discover the Fair Lifts difference and let us take your project or charter to new heights. Trust us to deliver excellence in every aspect of your helicopter experience.


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