Helicopters are the aircraft of choice for the majority of aerial cinematography duties as they offer the most in versatility. The ability for multidirectional flight gives the aerial cinematographer control and finesse over the movement of the camera much like the director of photography would do with any ground-based camera dolly.

Choosing a suitable rotorcraft camera ship is predicated on the demands of the shot and the camera mounting system to be used. The ones shown here are the most utilized with the majority of commercially available filming systems having been designed and/or certificated for installation.

Equally important to consider are the many variables affecting the inflight performance characteristics of the helicopter, the most significant being air temperature, pressure & density altitude, moisture content of the air, gross weight, external stores (ball mounts in particular fall under this heading) and wind.

In addition, each helicopter has its own maximum airspeed limitations (expressed as VNE - velocity never to exceed) which will be further reduced by the installation of any camera mounting system. There are definite reasons for these limitations and under no circumstances should they ever be exceeded.

Number of people on board factors into the aircraft gross weight which will affect performance, particularly at altitude or during hover. Increased weight aside, with certain camera mounts there quite frankly will not be enough room left, beyond the pilot and operator, to accommodate any more passengers other than maybe the director. Portable Combo 8 units can be used to record video assist for later playback on the ground.

Discussing all aspects of the shot with the Aerial Cinematographer, Aerial Coordinator and Camera Ship Pilot will ensure a safe and intelligent choice of helicopter for all camera ship duties on the production.