Sure, concrete can fly--with the help of a helicopter, a fearless pilot, and an experienced ground crew. Transporting fresh concrete by helicopter can be the solution when there is no convenient access to the concrete placement point. In Vail, Colorado, a fixed quad-chair lift was built as an access to Vail Mountain for the residents and visitors of Cascade Village. Placement of footing concrete by helicopter was required because of the rugged, steep terrain and the policy of the U.S. Forest Service to limit construction access roads.
HELICOPTER ABILITIES
The amount of concrete transported each trip is controlled by the bucket weight, elevation above sea level, air temperature, and the size of the helicopter.
PREPARE FOR SPECIAL CONDITIONS
A helicopter's rotating blades create a downward air blast on the ground. This air blast blows up dirt and debris and has even been known to blow down loosely constructed forms. Securely anchor loose construction materials, like plywood, that can be a flying hazard when the helicopter arrives.
