Toby Hackford

I am a Powerline construction pilot at A&P Helicopters in Northern California

Ever wondered what it takes to leave the UK, become a helicopter pilot, and soar through the skies of Northern California? Meet Toby Hackford, a 2017 graduate of Mauna Loa Helicopters who is now living his dream, flying Bell 407 helicopters for A&P Helicopters and working on powerline construction projects. His journey is nothing short of inspiring—and proves that with passion, determination, and the right training, the sky’s the limit.

The Beginning: From the UK to the Skies

Toby’s story starts across the pond in the UK, where he always had his eyes on the sky. Growing up with an interest in aviation, he knew that becoming a helicopter pilot was his dream. However, pursuing this dream meant stepping outside of his comfort zone—and that’s exactly what Toby did.

In 2016, Toby made the bold decision to chase his dream on the other side of the world, enrolling in Mauna Loa Helicopters in Hawaii for flight training. It wasn’t just a new chapter for him; it was an entirely new adventure. He swapped the rolling hills of the UK for the tropical beauty of Hawaii, where he learned to fly and gained the skills needed to take to the skies with confidence.

Flight Training at Mauna Loa Helicopters: Hard Work and High-Flying Fun

Training at Mauna Loa Helicopters wasn’t just about learning how to operate a helicopter. It was about building a foundation of skills that would support a long, successful career in aviation. From mastering the fundamentals of flying to getting comfortable in the cockpit of various helicopters, Toby spent countless hours perfecting his craft.

And, of course, there was the fun part—the thrill of flying over the stunning Hawaiian landscapes! But while the views were breathtaking, Toby knew that becoming a skilled helicopter pilot took more than just an adventurous spirit. He had to commit to hard work, discipline, and a deep understanding of both the technical and practical aspects of flight.
From Training to Career: Toby’s Big Leap to Northern California

After completing his flight training in 2017, Toby’s next big step was to land a job that would allow him to put his new skills to work. That opportunity came with A&P Helicopters, a company based in Northern California. The region’s varied terrain, from rugged mountains to dense forests, made it the perfect place to apply his training in real-world conditions.

Now flying Bell 407 helicopters, Toby’s days are filled with high-flying adventures, helping with powerline construction projects that are crucial for keeping the lights on in remote areas of Northern California. Whether it’s lifting heavy equipment into hard-to-reach areas or transporting workers to job sites, Toby’s job is far from ordinary. In fact, it’s the type of work that challenges him daily, requiring not only skill and precision but a solid understanding of helicopter operations in diverse environments.

Why Powerline Construction?

You might be wondering why powerline construction? The answer is simple: It’s one of the most dynamic and challenging tasks a helicopter pilot can be involved in. Flying helicopters in support of powerline projects means navigating tough terrain, carrying heavy loads, and making precise drops—all while ensuring the safety of both the crew on the ground and the equipment being transported. It’s a high-stakes environment that pushes pilots like Toby to be at their best, all while supporting the vital infrastructure that powers communities.

With Bell 407 helicopters at his disposal, Toby is equipped with one of the best machines for the job. These helicopters are known for their performance, versatility, and ability to handle heavy loads—perfect for the demanding tasks involved in powerline construction. But it’s Toby’s training, combined with his passion for aviation, that truly makes him a standout in his field.

The Road Ahead: Soaring to New Heights

For Toby, the journey is just beginning. From flying in Hawaii to navigating the skies of Northern California, his career as a helicopter pilot is already off to an incredible start. But as with all aviation careers, the sky is the limit. Whether he’s looking to expand his skill set, take on more complex projects, or even explore other types of flying, Toby knows that there are always new challenges and opportunities waiting for him in the world of aviation.

And for those thinking about following in Toby’s footsteps? He’s got one piece of advice: don’t hesitate. The path to becoming a helicopter pilot might be demanding, but it’s also rewarding in ways that you can’t fully appreciate until you take flight. With dedication and the right training, you, too, can reach new heights—just like Toby Hackford.