The RotorHub International Podcast
The RotorHub International Podcast is a B2B show covering the civil and parapublic rotorcraft industry. Hosted by editor Gideon Ewers, it features conversations with pilots, firefighters, manufacturers, CEOs, and others shaping the sector. Episodes explore public safety aviation, search and rescue missions, the future of vertical lift, and other pressing rotorcraft topics. Released bi-weekly, it offers expert insight for professionals and enthusiasts interested in helicopter technology and industry trends.
Episodes
Raising Standards in Helicopter Landing Site Surveys: James John, Founder, HeliSafe Surveyor
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, Editor Gideon Ewers is joined by James John, Founder of HeliSafe Surveyor, to discuss the limitations of traditional helicopter landing site surveys and why the industry needs a higher standard of surveyor training.John explains how his experience of these challenges led him to create HeliSafe Surveyor. He also explores how better communicatio
The Black Hawk’s Role in Wildfire Response: Jonathan Castorena, VP International Business and Sales, Helicopter Alliance
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, Editor Gideon Ewers is joined by Jonathan Castorena, Vice President of International Business and Sales at Helicopter Alliance, to discuss the company’s origins and growth, and the continued relevance of the Black Hawk helicopter.Castorena also shares insight into the demand for Black Hawks, their evolving role in wildfire response and how the
Turning Safety Data into Preventive Action: Krister Genmark, Senior Vice President of Revenue, Vellox Group
Returning to the RotorHub International Podcast, Krister Genmark, Senior Vice President of Revenue at Vellox Group, joins Editor Gideon Ewers to discuss how aviation organisations can turn safety data into practical action.Genmark explores how data from safety management systems, incidents and minor accidents can reveal early warnings of more serious risks. He also discusses the importance of adap
Bridging the Gap with Hybrid-Electric VTOL: Brandon Robinson, Co-founder and CEO, Horizon Aircraft
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, Editor Gideon Ewers is joined by Brandon Robinson, Co-founder and CEO of Horizon Aircraft, to discuss the company’s hybrid-electric approach to vertical flight and why they chose not to pursue an all-electric aircraft.Robinson explores the operational gap Horizon Aircraft aims to address with the Cavorite X7, combining vertical take-off and la
Rethinking Aircrew Protection with the RATH Helmet: David Rogers, Founder, VNE Aero
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, Editor Gideon Ewers is joined by David Rogers, Founder of VNE Aero, to discuss the evolution of rotary-wing flight helmets and how efforts to improve impact protection have contributed to heavier, larger systems that can affect aircrew comfort, mobility and long-term health.Rogers also shares the thinking behind VNE Aero’s Rotary Wing Advanced
GT50 Milestone on the Road to HX50 First Flight: Jason Hill, Founder, Hill Helicopters
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, Gideon Ewers speaks with Jason Hill, Founder and Chief Engineer at Hill Helicopters, about the GT50 engine’s first successful run, the development of the HX50 and progress towards its first flight.
The Evolution of Law Enforcement Aviation: Joseba Mendizabal, Lieutenant, Basque Police
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, Editor Gideon Ewers is joined by Joseba Mendizabal, Lieutenant, Pilot and CFI with the Basque Police, to discuss the role of helicopter operations in modern law enforcement and the evolving demands placed on police aviation.Mendizabal also shares insight into the Basque Police's aviation unit, pilot recruitment and in-house training, the
The Evolution of Helicopter Connectivity and Avionics: Tor Baustad of Vipe 21
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, Gideon Ewers speaks with Tor Baustad, Business Development at Vipe 21, about the future of helicopter connectivity, emerging avionics technologies and the innovations shaping rotorcraft operations.
The H160 in Offshore Energy: Régis Magnac, Vice President Head of Energy, Leasing and Global Accounts, Airbus Helicopters
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, Editor Gideon Ewers is joined by Régis Magnac, Vice President Head of Energy, Leasing and Global Accounts at Airbus Helicopters, to discuss the launch of H160 operations in the North Sea and the aircraft's expanding role across multiple mission types.Magnac also shares insight into the H160's versatility across offshore energy, busin
The Future of Offshore Energy Support: Jamie John, Chief Commercial Officer, NHV Group
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, Editor Gideon Ewers is joined by Jamie John, Chief Commercial Officer at NHV Group, to discuss the launch of H160 operations in the North Sea and what this latest milestone means for the operator.John also shares insight into NHV's history as the global launch customer for the H175, the growing importance of offshore wind support operatio
Essex & Herts Air Ambulance: Bill Long on AOC, HEMS Operations and Challenges Facing the Sector
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, Editor Gideon Ewers is joined by Bill Long, Aviation Director at Essex & Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT), to discuss the charity’s recent Air Operator Certificate (AOC) award and what this milestone means for the organisation.Long also shares insight into EHAAT’s role supporting five million people across Essex and Hertfordshire, operating two
Reflections from an Oil & Gas Helicopter Pilot: Andy Oxenford on Offshore Aviation, Career Experiences and Industry Change
Season 3 of the RotorHub International Podcast begins with Editor Gideon Ewers joined by Andy Oxenford, author of Reflections of an Oil & Gas Helicopter Pilot, to discuss his experiences across the offshore helicopter industry. Drawing on decades in oil and gas aviation, Oxenford reflects on offshore operations, career-defining moments and how the industry has evolved over the years, while als
Exploring the Future of Aerial Firefighting in Europe: Ruben García Medina, Managing Director Iberia, Avincis
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, Editor Gideon Ewers is joined by Ruben García Medina, Managing Director Iberia at Avincis, to discuss the company’s role in supporting critical aerial operations across Europe. From aerial firefighting to search and rescue and emergency medical services, Avincis supports essential missions across the region while helping address the growing ch
Enterprise Control Systems: Mission-Critical Communications with Colin Waite and Paul Petit-How
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, Gideon Ewers speaks with Colin Waite, Police Account Manager, and Paul Petit-How, Business Development Lead at Enterprise Control Systems (ECS), part of SPX Communication Technologies.Enterprise Control Systems specialises in advanced communication and datalink technologies supporting aviation, defence, and security operations worldwide. With
VERTICON Day 2: Speaking with Vellox Group, Senior Vice President of Revenue, Krister Genmark
Live from Day 2 of VERTICON, RotorHub’s Gideon Ewers speaks with Krister Genmark, Senior Vice President of Revenue at Vellox Group.Vellox Group provides specialised aviation services supporting helicopter operators and organisations across the global rotorcraft sector. Speaking from the show floor, Krister introduces the company and shares insight into Vellox Group’s role within the evolving rotor
VERTICON Day 1: Speaking with Axnes Managing Director Markus Schmitz and Vice President Brett J. Gardner
Live from VERTICON, RotorHub’s Gideon Ewers speaks with Axnes Managing Director Markus Schmitz and Vice President Brett J. Gardner. Axnes is a Norwegian technology company specialising in advanced wireless intercom systems designed to improve communication and safety in demanding aviation and operational environments. In this short conversation from the show floor, they introduce the company and d
Exploring Next Gen Safety: Anja Eriksen Pilot, CRM Trainer and Aviation Life Coach
In Episode 12 of the RotorHub International Podcast, we’re joined by Capt. Anja Eriksen, pilot, CRM trainer and aviation life coach, to explore what “Next Gen Safety” really means for today’s aviation industry.While aviation rightly prides itself on decades of safety advancement, the rate of improvement has plateaued for more than 20 years. In this episode, we discuss the need for a more proactive
Building the Next Generation of Rotorcraft Professionals: Geoff Packer, CEO of HeliSpeed
In Episode 11 of the RotorHub International Podcast, we’re joined by Geoff Packer, CEO of HeliSpeed Ltd, a leading aviation training academy dedicated to developing the next generation of helicopter pilots and engineers.As the global rotorcraft industry faces increasing demand for skilled professionals, Geoff shares how HeliSpeed was established to raise standards in pilot and engineer training, w
Digitalising Rotorcraft Compliance: Tobias Nilsson of Web Manuals
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, we’re joined by Tobias Nilsson, Sales Manager EMEA at Web Manuals, a leading digital documentation and compliance management platform for the aviation industry. Tobias brings deep insight into how digitalisation is transforming rotorcraft operations, from enhanced safety workflows to more efficient regulatory compliance.
Live from EUROPEAN ROTORS: Reiser's Advancements in Rotorcraft Training Technology
In the latest episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, we sit down with Jonas Goercke, Head of Business Line Flight Training at Reiser Simulation and Training GmbH. Jonas offers a deep dive into the world of high-fidelity rotorcraft simulation, exploring how training has evolved and advanced in the rotorcraft industry, the competitiveness of the training sector, and how technologies like MR
Live from EUROPEAN ROTORS: The Making of Climb Higher
Recorded live from EUROPEAN ROTORS 2025 in Cologne, this special edition of the RotorHub International Podcast brings together an expert guest panel: President and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company, David Smith, Photographer, Jon Davison, and Writer, Jude Brazendale. They share the history and development of their recently published book 'Climb Higher', exclusively available at EUROPEA
LIVE FROM EUROPEAN ROTORS: Inside Avincis: The Evolution of a Global Rotorcraft Leader with Simon Tye
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, we speak with Simon Tye, Chief Commercial Officer at Avincis Group, to uncover the history, mission and growth of one of Europe’s leading helicopter and critical aviation service providers. Simon shares how Avincis was formed, the company’s evolution in the rotorcraft sector, and the strategic vision driving its expansion across emergency medi
The Critical Component: Navigating the Used Parts Market with Hayward and Green
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, we dive into the world of surplus, component life cycles, and smart sourcing with Jeremy Green, CEO, and Elio Sicheri, Rotary Wing Programme Manager, at Hayward & Green Aviation Ltd. They break down the current state of the used parts market, discussing everything from the challenges of traceability and certification to the massive cost-sa
From Fighter Jets to HEMS Operations: Nicola Winter’s Journey Through Flight, Space, and Service
In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, we’re joined by Nicola Winter, pilot, keynote speaker, lecturer, and advisor at ADAC Luftrettung, whose remarkable career embodies passion, precision, and purpose in aviation.In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, we’re joined by Nicola Winter. Nicola’s journey began with a childhood dream of flight that led her to become one o
Navigating New Skies: The Evolution of Helicopter and AAM Valuations with Sara Dhariwal
In this episode, we are joined by Sara Dhariwal, Lead Appraiser for Helicopters and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) at Cirium Consultancy. Sara brings a wealth of expertise in aviation asset valuation and market analysis, with a career spanning over a decade at Cirium.Today, Sara leads the Ascend Helicopter Valuations practice, overseeing a global team of six experts. Her role focuses on delivering ma
Lifting Lives: Insights into SAR and Rescue Hoists with Ian Bonthrone
We are excited to welcome Ian Bonthrone, Chief Executive of Air Rescue UK Ltd, as our next guest on the RotorHub International Podcast. With over two decades as a military crewman on combat support and SAR helicopters, followed by a career spanning medical devices, public safety, and leadership roles, Ian brings a wealth of experience to the table. From his time as a Search & Rescue Winchman,
Rescue Through Connection: CENTUM’s LifeSeeker with Luis Muñoz Miller
In this episode, we are joined by Luis Muñoz Miller, Regional Sales Manager for the US, Canada, and LATAM at CENTUM, to explore how their innovative LifeSeeker system is transforming search and rescue operations.Luis explains how LifeSeeker works by turning a mobile phone into a beacon, enabling rescue teams to locate missing people quickly and accurately, even in challenging environments where tr
Shaping the Future of Helicopter Leasing with Milestone Aviation
Today on the podcast, we’re joined by two senior leaders from Milestone Aviation. First, we have Pat Sheedy, President and CEO, who has led the company since 2019 and brings over 25 years of global financial services and aircraft leasing experience, including senior roles at GE and GECAS. Alongside him is Sébastien Moulin, Chief Commercial Officer, appointed in 2024, who oversees Milestone’s world
Inside MD Helicopters: Ryan Weeks on Support, Service & Strategy
In this episode recorded at MD Helicopters' headquarters in Mesa, Arizona, Editor Gideon Ewers sits down with Ryan Weeks, CEO and President of MD Helicopters, for an insightful conversation on leadership, innovation, and the future of rotorcraft support.With a distinguished career spanning multiple Fortune 500 companies and industries, Ryan brings a wealth of strategic experience to his role
Flying with Purpose: Lisa Zumkeller on Aerial Firefighting, Medevac, and mentoring women in aviation
In this episode of the RotorHub International podcast, we are joined by Lisa Zumkeller, a contract precision longline pilot whose passion for vertical reference flying has taken her across some of Canada’s most rugged and remote landscapes. She plays a critical role in wildfire suppression operations and also flies medevac missions aboard the BK117.Originally from Germany, Lisa grew up on a farm b
Flying Forward: Joe Decapite on training, sales and support at Bell Training Academy
In this episode of the RotorHub International podcast, we sit down with Joe Decapite, Manager of Flight Training at Bell Training Academy. With a distinguished background in leadership across operations, logistics, and risk management, Joe brings a wealth of experience to the conversation. Joe shares insights into Bell’s approach to flight training, the evolving needs of pilots in today’s operatio
Precision in the Air: Mike Martin & Cody Berg on Next-Gen Rescue Hoist Technology with Air Rescue Systems
In this episode of the RotorHub International podcast, we’re joined by Mike Martin, Vice President of Training, and Cody Berg, Hoist Operations Instructor at Air Rescue Systems. Together, they unveil a breakthrough in aerial rescue technology: a next-generation rescue hoist system designed to eliminate uncontrolled spin during extractions.Spinning during hoist operations has long been a critical s
Powering the Future: NHV Group’s CEO Lars-Henrik Thorngreen on Sustainable Aviation Fuel and Rotorcraft Transformation
Lars-Henrik Thorngreen, a transformative leader in the aviation sector with a sharp focus on strategic growth, operational excellence, and innovation. With deep board-level expertise in governance, risk management, and navigating complex transformations. Thorngreen brings insights that extend far beyond aviation. From steering ESG initiatives to building stakeholder trust across regulated industri
Two Sides of the Same Mission: Crewed and Uncrewed Integration in Rotorcraft with Peter Fuchs and Rob Bentley-Johnston
It has become readily apparent that, far from being competitors, crewed and uncrewed assets are becoming two sides of the same mission delivery coin. In this episode, we sit down with industry leaders from HeliFlite and Ascent Aerosystems to explore how nano drones are revolutionising mission flexibility, enhancing situational awareness, and integrating seamlessly into modern rotorcraft operations
Safety first: Inside Aviation Safety Programmes with Zahara Oubre
Zahara Oubre, Director of Aviation Safety Programs at mba Aviation, shares her journey leading global safety initiatives across airlines and the Oil and Gas sector. With over 15 years of experience, Zahara talks about driving innovation through programs like OSAR, UASi, and JumpseatSMS, and how they are shaping the future of aviation safety.
Ronnie Ries on the future of HUMS systems and technology
In recent years, the ability to use HUMS systems that are not only more accurate than ever before but also progressive reductions in weight, have made them a realistic option for almost every class of helicopter. In this episode GPMS' Mr HUMS Ronnie Ries shares his insight and vision about where the technology is, where it is going and what it means not only in dollars and cents, but also in
Revolutionising vertical lift: magniX's electric future with CTO Riona Armesmith
There are those that hype and there are those that do. In the vertical lift sector, there has been a lot of the former and precious little of the latter. At the forefront of those in the latter camp are magniX. Keep in mind that the company flew its first all-electric helicopter, a modified R44, over two years ago – and they continue to be at the leading edge of the fixed-wing space also. In this
Fred North: From Hollywood stunts to helping the next generation of pilots
Fred North has become synonymous with the production of action movies. Nine times out of ten, if there is a helicopter doing exciting things, it's Fred in action. But his latest project, leaves the glamour of Hollywood as he focusses on helping the next generation of pilots be the best they can be.
Inside the Midlands Air Ambulance with Karen Baker: Training, innovation, and saving lives
In this special on-location episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, host Gideon Ewers visits the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity at RAF Cosford to explore their cutting-edge training facility. Joined by Aircrew Supervisor and Critical Care Paramedic Karen Baker, we take a deep dive into the advanced medical training and life-saving missions that make this air ambulance service so vital.
Gary Vermaak on the challenges facing the eVTOL industry
eVTOLs: Fact, Fiction, or Faction?In this episode of the RotorHub International Podcast, host Gideon Ewers sits down with Gary Vermaak, a senior advisor to the Advanced Air Mobility Institute, to discuss the challenges facing the eVTOL industry. From the realities of aircraft certification timelines to operational hurdles like battery performance in extreme conditions, we cut through the hype to u
Day 3: Robinson Helicopter's David Smith on innovation, safety, and the future of vertical lift
In our third and final episode, host Gideon Ewers sits down with David Smith, President & CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company, to discuss pressing challenges and emerging innovations in the rotorcraft industry. Smith offers his unique perspective on workforce development, regulatory constraints, industry-wide collaboration and exciting plans on the horizon for Robinson in 2025. Smith also teas
Day 2: EASA's David Solar on automation and the future of pilot roles and Bell's Steve Soliz on the evolving HEMS operations across the world
In our second episode, host Gideon Ewers sits down with David Solar, EASA's Head of General Aviation and Vertical Take Off and Landing and Steve Soliz, Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) Segment Manager at Bell. Solar shares insights from EASA’s recent Rotorcraft and VTOL Safety Symposium, where discussions covered advanced automation, new safety measures, and the evolving role of pi
Day 1: Philippe Lubrano of Rotortrade on the emerging trends and challenges in the vertical lift market
Philippe shares his unique insights from over three decades in the industry, covering the rising demand for new and pre-owned helicopters, supply chain pressures, and workforce challenges. With critical shifts in defence spending, disaster response, and climate change impacts, the global vertical lift industry faces unprecedented growth – and an urgent need to adapt.#season1
Clark McGinn on the highs and lows of financing in the helicopter market
There can't be many people on the planet with more knowledge of the helicopter market than our guest in this episode, Clark McGinn. In his time with the Royal Bank of Scotland, CHC Leasing, Waypoint Leasing and latterly at Uplifting Advice, he's been at the front when it comes to financing aircraft, and has the scars to prove it!#season2
Stu Sprung on the larger challenges the aerial firefighting community faces as the climate evolves
The devastating wildfires in Southern California have dominated the news cycle. But as he only stepped down as CAL FIRE’s Chief of Flight Operations a few weeks ago, there is no one on earth better placed to talk about the agency’s efforts to combat wildfires on such a scale than our guest, Stu Sprung. We talk not only tactics but also the larger challenges the aerial firefighting community faces
