In a recent episode of his podcast, Joe Rogan delved into the dangers of helicopter travel, spurred by the mysterious crash involving an Iranian official. Rogan, known for his candid and often humorous takes on various topics, shared his thoughts on the incident and the inherent risks of flying helicopters, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Rogan’s conversation with Scott Horton, a knowledgeable commentator, highlighted the likelihood that the crash was due to poor weather. Horton suggested that severe weather conditions might have been so debilitating that even recovery efforts were hampered. “It does seem like bad weather,” Horton noted, emphasizing how the harsh conditions likely contributed to the tragic accident.
The discussion also touched on the limited political impact of targeting an Iranian president. As Horton explained, “taking out the Iranian president doesn’t really do anything. The Ayatollah is who has control.” This insight underscores the futility of a targeted attack on the president, given the power dynamics in Iran.
Despite the mundane explanation of bad weather, Rogan acknowledged the human tendency to gravitate towards more sensational stories. “Of course, you always in some weird, perverse way want the more exciting story,” he admitted. However, the practical risks of flying in poor conditions cannot be ignored. “It’s really not safe to fly a helicopter in bad weather,” Rogan emphasized, noting the terrifying prospect of losing visibility and flying into obstacles like mountains.
Rogan’s personal experiences with helicopter flights added a relatable dimension to the discussion. He recounted his discomfort with helicopters, despite reassurances from experienced pilots. “I’ve never been in a helicopter and I don’t want to,” he confessed. This sentiment reflects a broader skepticism about the safety of helicopters compared to airplanes, which are equipped with more sophisticated navigation systems.
Interestingly, Rogan mentioned his friend and fellow comedian Bill Burr, who is an accomplished helicopter pilot. Burr has taken Rogan on flights around downtown Los Angeles, providing a unique perspective on the cityscape. Despite Burr’s skills, the idea of flying with him remains unnerving for Rogan. “Flying in a helicopter that’s being piloted by Bill Burr is the scariest thing in the world to me,” he quipped, imagining Burr’s passionate outbursts mid-flight.
Rogan described the surreal experience of flying around skyscrapers and observing the numerous helicopter landing pads on rooftops in downtown LA. “You just fly right by these skyscrapers,” he marveled, acknowledging the thrill and beauty of such flights while maintaining his overall reluctance.
Ultimately, Rogan’s musings on helicopter travel serve as a reminder of the real dangers associated with flying in adverse weather. While the allure of dramatic stories persists, the reality often points to more straightforward explanations, such as bad weather. Rogan’s candid reflections resonate with many who share his apprehensions about the safety of helicopters, highlighting the need for caution in aviation.
