Episode #144 - Operation Helo - Hope in a Crisis: Eric Robinson - The Helicopter Podcast

Send us a text Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast , brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS ! 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!