US-based operator Helinet has appointed Van Bogardus as its new director of utility. Bogardus brings over 30 years of leadership to this role, having worked in various segments of law enforcement including air support, patrol, search and rescue, safety and training. A former US Forest Service carded pilot, he will oversee all aspects of the company's utility division, including flight operations, FAA Part 133 training and scheduling, in addition to fostering new growth opportunities.

After two successful years flying firefighting missions, the company is actively ramping up its efforts with additional aircrews and support equipment.

"Strategic planning, management and strong leadership are crucial to our fire mission, and I am confident in Van's ability to guide the department as we continue to scale," says president Tom Norton. "His decades of proven leadership across various roles in aviation will be a key attribute to the success of this division as we expand our operations."

Helinet entered the utility market in 2020 through a partnership with Brown Helicopter and Andzue Helicopter. It doubled its firefighting capabilities in May 2021 with the addition of a second UH-60 Firehawk. The company has contracts with the US Forest Service, Cal Fire and the states of Oregon, Montana, Washington and Alaska.

Bogardus has received numerous awards over his career including the Silver and Bronze Star Medals of Valour, Combat Action Cross, several letters of commendation, and three California State Senate Life Saving Awards.

"I'm honoured to join the Helinet team and be a part of a well respected organisation that helps save lives and positively impacts communities," says Bogardus. "I look forward to working with our utility partners and providing the most effective aerial firefighting solutions possible."

When not fighting fires, Helinet's UH-60 aircraft are available to assist with other missions such as powerline construction and maintenance projects. Additional utility service offerings include LiDAR and aerial mapping, powerline and pipeline inspection and aerial frost control.