For now, the market for helicopters appears to be those with the jobs that drones have a hard time completing. [File Photo: Adobe Stock]
Key Takeaways:
The helicopter industry is facing a significant battle for survival, evidenced by a nearly 50% decline in global sales over the past decade and the bankruptcy of long-standing companies.
This decline is attributed to economic downturns impacting key sectors like offshore oil and gas, as well as disruption from emerging technologies such as drones, which offer cheaper and safer alternatives for news reporting and agriculture.
Challenges are further compounded by a critical lack of heliport infrastructure, high operational costs, and increasing noise/sustainability regulations.
The market is increasingly limited to specialized roles like emergency medical services, heavy lifting, and law enforcement, with industry experts expressing pessimism about the long-term future due to ongoing advancements in autonomous vehicles.
It may not seem obvious, but the helicopter industry might be in a battle for survival.
When Enstrom Helicopter, a 64-year-old company with a storied history, unwound its operations in January, it was a signal that something was amiss in the market. If this were just an anomaly case of pandemic forces, there would be no cause for alarm. But that isn’t the case.
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Michael Wildes holds a master’s degree in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, and a bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Science, both from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Previously, he worked at the university’s flight department as a Flight Check Airman, Assistant Training Manager, and Quality Assurance Mentor. He holds MEI, CFI & CFII ratings. Follow Michael on Twitter @Captainwildes.
