It’s 8 am on a cold Friday morning here at the base of Whitefish Mountain. The weather report is saying that a fast moving snow squall is heading our way. I have an anxious group of extreme skiers who said they are willing to take the chance. I told them to hurry up and hop in; this storm is fast approaching.  They gathered their gear and we were on our way!


The snow is starting to pick up as the winds play with my chopper. The guys in the back actually think it is pretty fun! I on the other hand know first hand how fast and furious these snow squalls can be! I keep my eyes on the instruments as the guys in the back start to get jumpy!


The peak of Whitefish Mountain is just to my North! I yell back to the guys to start gathering their things, this will be a quick drop off! I have landed on this mountaintop many times and know it like the back of my hand. I just hate it when it snows because it always makes for a challenging landing!


I turn the Gazelle towards the peak of Whitefish Mountain and slowly start to bring her down. The guys pack up and make final adjustments to their gear. I yelled back to them;  "I will only be on the ground for one minute. When the sleds hit the snow, start jumping out!"


The mountain peak is just below us as I start to let off on the throttle. The winds are picking up and I can see the squall line fast approaching. Slowly the helicopter descends on the mountaintop as I grapple with the controls. My passengers are now taking on a different look as they finally realize the chances we are all taking on this extreme trip!


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Dave  8)

Nice shots!

Nice flyin!! Great story!

Hmm... Your missing an instrument there. At a guess I would say your primary artificial horizon. That little one looks like a spare...

Nice pics though. And story.