We first told you about Bering Air’s R44 helicopter in our coverage of the Mount Osborne rescue back in May. Now you get to meet the pilot, Corey Konik.
I got to chat with Corey earlier this month. As a fixed wing guy with only a handful of hours in helicopters, I was really interested in what he had to say about becoming–and working as–a helicopter pilot.
Corey Conik and one of Bering Air’s new MD 500 helicopters.
Among other things, we discussed the benefits of getting a fixed wing license first, why being dual rated can help you stay employed, flight instructing in helicopters, the types of missions he flies for Bering Air, the work schedule, the challenges of heli-skiing flying, and the Mount Osborne rescue.
The new MD 500s in the Bering Air hangar in Nome.
If you want to fly helicopters, or are just interested in what your rotary wing brothers and sisters are up to, have a listen.
Also be sure to check out our video walkthrough of the MD 500.
Audio
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