Aerial Cinematography: Aircraft

Fixed-wing Aircraft

Rotorcraft

Aircraft used in aerial cinematography are designated by the Aerial Cinematographer and Aerial Coordinator as either a camera ship or story ship.

Many types of fixed-wing and rotorcraft aircraft are utilized with helicopters being the most versatile for most camera ship duties.

The choice and use of camera ship aircraft should be decided upon by the aerial cinematographer working closely with the aerial coordinator and camera ship pilot.

However, the aerial coordinator is the first and last word on all matters regarding the acquisition, permitting and use of all aircraft on a motion picture aerial unit production.

Story Ships

Story ships, being on camera, can be any aircraft deemed airworthy and suited to the task. For added production value, a custom color scheme can be applied to the ship's exterior, as per Art Department specs, using a removable "peel" paint. It is also possible to install a Night Sun for use as a practical or source of air-to-air or air-to-ground illumination.

It should be noted that the FAA takes exception to the use of nonstandard category aircraft over heavily populated areas. These consist mainly of demilitarized aircraft, such as the Bell 205 UH-1 Iroquois (Huey) or AH-1 Huey Cobra, et. al., owned and maintained by civilian pilots and enthusiasts. The FAA designates them as experimental restricting who flys them and where they can be flown. This is a crucial consideration if such an aircraft is ever needed for film production in a restricted area.

Camera Ships

Camera ships, in terms of camera mount certification, are limited to only a few types of aircraft. Although the majority of camera ships are rotorcraft, certain situations require higher altitude and performance capable fixed-wing aircraft.

Work closely with the Aerial Coordinator on all matters concerning aircraft, permitting procedures and proper protocol regarding FAA regulations governing the process.