Since 1996, Swanson Group Aviation has been providing safe, dependable vertical reference/external load helicopter services. We built our heavy lift platform around the K-1200 K-MAX because of its efficient and reliable heavy lift capabilities at high elevation with low rotor noise and low downwash. We are one of the industries most experienced owner/operators of that aircraft. We currently own and operate two K-MAX helicopters, based at our facility in Glendale, Oregon.
In January 2014, SGA took delivery of a reconditioned restricted category Bell UH-1H (Huey). This aircraft is being offered as a medium lift Type II helicopter for Call-When-Needed (CWN), logging projects and other medium lift work.
In March 2014, SGA purchased RAM Systems, Inc., a company specializing in infrared camera mapping operations. With this purchase we acquired a 1989 Bell 206 B-III Jet Ranger, infrared cameras and a trailer equipped with computers and printers necessary to produce maps. We also have the capability to perform certified 135 operations with a single pilot. This aircraft will be submitted for CWN services in the solicitation for Type III aircraft in Region 6.
We staff our heavy and medium lift helicopter operations with pilots and mechanics working alternating two week on/two week off rotating schedules (12 days on 12 days off on fire contract). This allows us to offer our customers 7-days-a-week service while maintaining a safe and efficient work environment.
Our pilots and mechanics gain long line experience in industries such as logging, firefighting, power line construction and ski lift construction, to name a few. All aircraft are accompanied by a trained and dedicated mechanic, a service trailer with common spare parts and tools, and a fuel truck driver/helper. Our mechanics are trained to perform progressive maintenance so availability is not negatively affected.
All Swanson Pilots and Mechanics are USFS Fire Carded annually.