Episode 298 - From F-16s to Quantum Helicopters: A Conversation with Terry Blakemore Part 1

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS , in partnership with Vertical Valor Magazine . Listen closely for your chance to win awesome prizes from Heli Life! Throughout 2025, every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast will reveal a secret word. Once you catch it, head to contests.verticalhelicasts.com/ to enter! In this episode, hosts Jon Gray and Jack Schonely speak with the owner and CEO of Quantum Helicopters, Terry Blakemore. Terry’s story of how he ended up owning Quantum Helicopters in Chandler, Arizona, is unique—starting with a fixed-wing flight at age nine. That flight with his dad resulted in a focus on aviation and the goal of flying fighter jets. Terry’s hard work paid off with an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy and eventually flying F-16s. Terry tells us about his interest in helicopters that lead to him taking lessons at, you guessed it, Quantum Helicopters. His aviation and business experience led to eventually owning the business. We discuss flying an F-16, risk management, leadership, flight instruction, and the important safety culture while training students. Don’t forget to like and subscribe to The Hangar Z Podcast. We also appreciate you taking a minute to write a review. These little things make a big difference for us to bring you a quality podcast with incredible guests. Thank you to our sponsors Dallas Avionics , CNC Technologies and Robinson Helicopter .