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In this inspiring episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host Halsey Schider welcomes Eric Robinson, recipient of the Blades of Valor Award and the driving force behind Operation Helo, a nonprofit that mobilized civilian helicopters for disaster relief during Hurricane Helene’s devastating aftermath in western North Carolina. Eric shares his journey from a fixed-wing aviation background, rooted in his father’s legacy as a Vietnam helicopter pilot, to co-founding Acme Aero, a leading suspension manufacturer for backcountry aircraft.
The conversation then dives into Operation Helo’s rapid response to Hurricane Helene, coordinating over 160 helicopters to deliver 2 million pounds of aid and rescue over 430 people. Eric highlights the critical role of Robinson helicopters in accessing tight spaces, as well as Operation Helo's organic growth , and its ongoing commitment to long-term recovery, including providing 221 travel campers for displaced families. Tune in for an amazing episode showcasing the power of community and aviation in a crisis.
To learn more about Operation Helo, visit: https://operationhelo.org/
Thank you to our sponsors Astronautics Corporation of America, Robinson Helicopter and Precision Aviation Group.
Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Helicopter Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com to enter!