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Jun
26
2022

Throwing Rocks | Helicopter Internet Experts?

Posted 2 years 168 days ago ago by Admin

In recent years, the ability to find an expert within the helicopter field appears to have gotten easier. With every social media post of a helicopter related issue, so-called  helicopter internet “experts” are full of detailed explanations. In many cases, details of an incident or accident are not even available, yet commentary inferring factual information about a helicopter-related event is often provided.

Recent high-profile helicopter accidents have proven to be social media gold for mainstream media companies. Comments from self-endorsed “experts” providing incorrect or false information to the media can misinform the public. This information can provide a poor perception of the helicopter industry, resulting in increased noise complaints or unwarranted safety concerns.

Engaging in helicopter-related issues on social media is a great opportunity to reflect professionalism in our industry. Explaining events in a constructive manner that provide readers an opportunity to gain insight and better understand our industry is the positive side of social media. Derogatory or negative comments undermine the perception that our industry is good for the community.

When helicopter pilots attack other helicopter pilots or companies on social media, that information only hurts our industry. When the need to engage a pilot or company rises to the point where such comments are necessary, engaging them directly is often the best course of action. If you can’t have a direct, professional conversation as described for a reason outside of your control, walk away. Trying to give a social media tongue lashing often hurts you more than your target.

Any attempt to provide uneducated commentary on helicopter accidents or incidents should be avoided as well. It is these comments provided by the helicopter internet “experts” that are often found to be incorrect. 

What would compel someone to make derogatory, negative or incorrect comments in a social media setting? One can only assume the ability to make such comments anonymously is empowering to some. I find anonymous comments that are negative to be cowardly. If you have a belief or a strong feeling, you should engage and support those beliefs; however, hiding behind a keyboard, throwing lingual rocks isn’t an act of valor!

Remember, every negative post placed on the internet is placed there in perpetuity for all to read. The success of the helicopter industry is challenging enough. Don’t participate in making our livelihood that much more difficult just to get a few words off your chest during a keyboard pounding rant.     

If you’re going to be a Helicopter Internet Expert, stay professional. Our industry needs the help! 

About Randy: 
Randy Rowles has been a FAA pilot examiner for 20 years for all helicopter certificates and ratings. He holds a FAA Gold Seal Flight Instructor Certificate, NAFI Master Flight Instructor designation, and was the 2013 recipient of the HAI Flight Instructor of the Year Award. Rowles is the owner/president of Helicopter Institute.

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