External Load Helicopter Training
Carry cargo on a hook hanging under the helicopter — FAR Part 133 sling-load and long-line operations taught by an active Part 133 operator.
Sling Loads & Long-Lines
Train with an Active Part 133 Operator
Helicopter Experts holds an active FAR Part 133 Rotorcraft External-Load Operator certificate and has been flying sling loads across Texas for utility, construction, and ranching customers since the 1990s. We train commercial helicopter pilots in three classes of external load operations using the same equipment we fly in revenue service.
Our chief instructor, Michael Bisek, is an Commercial Helicopter Pilot and Authorized Flight Instructor with thousands of hours of long-line and sling experience. You'll learn from someone who flies these missions for a living — not a textbook instructor.
FAR 133 Coverage
We Train in 3 Classes of External Load
Syllabus
Five Phases from Hook-Up to Checkride
- 1
Ground School
FAR 133 regulations, load planning, weight & balance with sling, hand signals, and safety briefings.
- 2
Hover & Pickup Drills
Precision hover work, vertical reference techniques, and pickup/setdown of training loads on flat terrain.
- 3
Long-Line Operations
50–100 ft long-line work — confined area, sloped terrain, and obstacle clearance practice.
- 4
Mission Profiles
Construction lifts, utility line stringing, ag-related slings, and HEC orientation flights.
- 5
Practical Evaluation
Performance evaluated to commercial PTS plus Part 133 operating limitations.
Prerequisites
Commercial Pilot License (helicopter).
Training Aircraft
Robinson R44 with FAA-approved cargo hook; Bell 47 for vertical-reference and long-line work.
Tuition & Scheduling
Programs are quoted by the hour and tailored to your existing experience. Most pilots complete a full Part 133 add-on in 5–10 flight hours plus ground. Call (210) 930-0125 for current rates and availability.
Ready to Add Sling-Load to Your Logbook?
Talk to a working Part 133 pilot about your training plan.