Drill Baby Drill

2014 AS350B3e - the premier drill moving helicopter.

Back in the day, fighting a fire during the North American summer was a novelty. Typically, when you weren’t moving a drill, cursing the bag runner, marveling at how much filth could stick to a driller, educating geologists on which datum to use, or towing a bird—basically, when all other options were exhausted—you’d call the local Wildfire Authority and suggest they take advantage of your services until a better option became available.

But that era took a dramatic turn with the onset of the Global Financial Crisis when overnight, funding for resource exploration evaporated as companies braced for a prolonged period of austerity. The teenage years of the 21st century were no better as fanatic environmental and climate-focused activists empowered by a progressive policies under various liberal and socialist governments, collectively stomped the life out of any mineral exploration. 

Like a skid-biter learning the long line, the swing back often overcorrects.

The world is watching as Trump moves to make America great again—and revitalizes much of the helicopter industry in the process. Even before being sworn in, he spurred change, inspiring the Canadian government to lease two of HTSC’s Restricted Category UH-60A+ helicopters for border patrol. These are the same ex-military helicopters that Transport Canada’s own regulations have essentially banned. Hmm...

What does all this mean for our industry? In a word: opportunity.

Globally exploration will surge once again and since (shockingly) EVTOL drones haven't replaced Helicopters to deliver humans far beyond the reach of roads, I expect the next 5–10 years will see drill moves lasting long into Fall Season.

But challenges remain: where will the next generation of pilots come from? How will operators secure the necessary helicopters and parts?

In today’s tight market, rising demand is likely to drive up costs and wages, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity.

Buckle up kids, it’s time to drill baby drill!