Long line cargo training begins with ground school lessons on the history and techniques used in lifting cargo. Ground school training utilizes teaching techniques such as the use of DVDs and PowerPoint presentations.
The amount of flight training offered to pilots is based on their individual helicopter and industry experience. Synthetic cables are used for training because they offer more resistance during a flight, reducing the amount of uncontrolled movements compared to steel cables that move faster.
During the training for long line cargo movement, helicopter pilots learn the technique of vertical reference flying. In traditional methods, helicopter pilots use the horizon to maintain control of the helicopter, while long line cargo pilots must look down at the cargo on the end of a cable to ensure the controlled movements of the cargo.
