In this special episode of The Rotary Wing Show, titled Top 10 Helicopter Stories + Helicopter News, aviation podcaster Max Trescott officially takes the reins from longtime host Mick Cullen. The episode celebrates the legacy of the podcast while looking forward to its new direction—with Max blending classic storytelling and timely helicopter news.
Mick kicks things off by sharing how he created the show in Australia to connect helicopter pilots working in isolated environments. With a passion for online marketing and storytelling, he built a platform where rotorcraft professionals could share their experiences with a global audience.
Together, Mick and Max count down 10 of the most impactful helicopter stories from past episodes:
- Mike Durant (Ep. 34) – The Black Hawk Down pilot shares powerful war stories and lessons from special operations aviation.
- Rob Mason (Ep. 46) – Vietnam veteran and Chickenhawk author delivers raw insight into helicopter combat.
- Harry Benson (Ep. 67) – British pilot recounts helicopter operations in the Falklands War.
- Peter Gillies (Ep. 41) – “Cyclic back” technique for emergency response—a must-hear safety episode.
- Matt Barker (Ep. 56) – The infamous “chicken bone story” that listeners can’t forget.
- Richard Morningstar Sanford (Eps. 93, 103) – Offers deep technical dives into governor systems and carburetor icing in Robinson helicopters.
- Dan Parsons (Ep. 109) – Analyzes a Pasadena Police Department accident and the systemic causes behind it.
- Kevin Humphreys (
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