Someone should produce a TV series based on Claudio Bellotto and HeliTahoe's helicopter tours of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding High Sierra. It would be fair to say that a ride in his 'little red chopper' might be the ultimate adventure for any Tahoe visitor -- or local for that matter.

So we couldn't think of a better SLTLA Associate Member to kick off our new "Featured Associate Member" profile than Claudio and HeliTahoe. But no one can tell his story as good as Mr. Bellotto himself.

Ladies and Gents, meet Claudio Bellotto and his HeliTahoe operation.

HeliTahoe was officially born in December 2005, with the clear intent of providing superior tours, unforgettable experiences, and unsurpassed safety record.

At the present time, we operate an R 44 Raven II helicopter, widely considered a masterpiece of safety and reliability. It accommodates 3 passengers plus the pilot. Everybody enjoys a window seat and the comfort of Noise Reduction System headsets.

My name is Claudio Walter, owner and pilot of HeliTahoe. I spent countless hours flying Hercules C 130 for the Italian Air Force many, many moons ago. Subsequently I became a senior officer and served for 20 years on board cruise ships. There is no known cure or treatment for the virus called passion for aviation, thus I eventually returned to the origin: a pilot again.

I began with instructing and I now operate HeliTahoe, where I answer the phone, clean the office, and make coffee. We proudly offer helicopter basic and advanced flight training, Mountain Flight Training, Sight-Seeing tours, Aerial Photography and, last but not least, Heli-Weddings.

Yes. Simple Tahoe Weddings has the exclusive use of the helicopter for the weddings, and it is becoming extremely popular. In fact, I am planning to hire a lawyer and celebrate divorces, too! (Over the lake).

Plans for the future include a substantial expansion of the fleet, and we are organizing helicopter tours in Nevada with the purpose of watching the wild Mustangs in their own habitat.

We are also considering Heli-Hunting, Heli-Fishing, and Back Country expeditions. For those who are interested, I will be happy to e-mail stunning high-resolution pictures taken by Keith Price, a professional photographer who likes to fly with me.

I'd like to thank the Lodging Association for this great opportunity, and I hope to see many of you soon!

Claudio W. Bellotto

530-544-2211

Email: claudio@helitahoe.com

Web: www.HeliTahoe.com

HeliTahoe Helicopter Services

...where eagles dare...

1901 Airport Road, Suite 106

South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 View map

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