Episode #84 - CEO of Schweizer Helicopters: David Horton - The Helicopter Podcast

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Welcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical
HeliCASTS!

In this captivating episode of The Helicopter Podcast, host
Halsey Schider interviews David Horton, CEO of Schweizer
Helicopters, to explore the rich history and enduring legacy of
this iconic helicopter brand.

David walks us through Schweizer Helicopters' journey, beginning
in the late 1950s as part of Hughes Tool Company, gaining
prominence during the Vietnam War, and transitioning through
ownership by Sikorsky to its current standing under Schweizer
Aircraft Corporation. In 2018, David and his team acquired the
company from Sikorsky. His passion for the Schweizer brand and
dedication to filling the void left by previous ownership is
evident throughout the discussion.

David shares his extensive career in the helicopter industry,
including pivotal roles at Bell Helicopter, Heli-Dyne Systems,
and Schweizer Helicopters. He addresses the unique challenges of
supporting the existing fleet and highlights the significance of
the refurbishment program, which aims to restore grounded
helicopters to operational status. Additionally, David touches on
the available supplemental type certificates (STCs) for Schweizer
aircraft, such as the crash-resistant fuel system, and the
initiative to modernize the helicopters with advanced glass panel
displays.

Throughout the conversation, David emphasizes the passion and
commitment of the Schweizer team in revitalizing the brand and
supporting their customers.

For an engaging discussion on the history, challenges, and future
of Schweizer Helicopters, tune into this episode of The
Helicopter Podcast!

Thank you to our sponsors Vertical Aviation International,
Precision Aviation Group and Sellacopter.