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Heli-Profiles
Navigating the Ring of Fire
Helicopter operators have come and gone over the past generation in many regions of Canada. One company that has survived national recessions and downturns in Ontario’s economy is Thunder Bay-based Wisk Air. With humble beginnings dating back to 1984, Wisk Air has evolved significantly over the past 26 years and enjoys considerable success because of its employees, its investments in aircraft and specialized equipment, and its commitment to customer service.
Helicopter operators have come and gone over the past generation in many regions of Canada. One company that has survived national recessions and downturns in Ontario’s economy is Thunder Bay-based Wisk Air. With humble beginnings dating back to 1984, Wisk Air has evolved significantly over the past 26 years and enjoys considerable success because of its employees, its investments in aircraft and specialized equipment, and its commitment to customer service.
Remote Refuelling: NextGen
There was a time when helicopter operators flying in Canada’s remote areas could get away with using unprotected fuel caches. If some gas happened to leak onto the ground, it just did. But times have changed. Today, governmental regulations require any users of fuel to store it in a manner that is both safe and designed to cope with leaks.
There was a time when helicopter operators flying in Canada’s remote areas could get away with using unprotected fuel caches. If some gas happened to leak onto the ground, it just did. But times have changed. Today, governmental regulations require any users of fuel to store it in a manner that is both safe and designed to cope with leaks.
Sea King Precision
More than 40 years ago the (then) Royal Canadian Navy pioneered the art of flying large helicopters off small ships in the middle of the deep blue sea, much to the amazement of its NATO allies.
More than 40 years ago the (then) Royal Canadian Navy pioneered the art of flying large helicopters off small ships in the middle of the deep blue sea, much to the amazement of its NATO allies.
Nominate for “Salute to Excellence” Today
Sept. 29, 2009, Alexandria, VA – The countdown to the “Salute to Excellence” Awards Celebration nomination deadline has begun. Friday, October 16, 2009 marks the last day entries will be accepted.
Sept. 29, 2009, Alexandria, VA – The countdown to the “Salute to Excellence” Awards Celebration nomination deadline has begun. Friday, October 16, 2009 marks the last day entries will be accepted.
Hydro One Celebrates 60 Years
Helicopter pioneers and pioneering helicopters gathered at Lake Simcoe Regional Airport on June 26 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of continuous helicopter operations by Hydro One Networks Inc.
Helicopter pioneers and pioneering helicopters gathered at Lake Simcoe Regional Airport on June 26 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of continuous helicopter operations by Hydro One Networks Inc.
Bringing in Backup
For years, the Edmonton Police Service’s AIR 1 helicopter has been a familiar sight in city skies. In fact, this Eurocopter EC120 has been so busy, that it’s become a recognized icon of the city; like the NHL Oilers and the sprawling West Edmonton Mall.
For years, the Edmonton Police Service’s AIR 1 helicopter has been a familiar sight in city skies. In fact, this Eurocopter EC120 has been so busy, that it’s become a recognized icon of the city; like the NHL Oilers and the sprawling West Edmonton Mall.
General Dynamics Green
General Dynamics calls it the flagship building. It’s bright. It’s attractive and it’s “green.” The four-storey structure purposely built for General Dynamics Canada at a cost of about $11 million is the company’s new facility in Cole Harbour, N.S., home of National Hockey League’s whiz kid Sidney Crosby.
General Dynamics calls it the flagship building. It’s bright. It’s attractive and it’s “green.” The four-storey structure purposely built for General Dynamics Canada at a cost of about $11 million is the company’s new facility in Cole Harbour, N.S., home of National Hockey League’s whiz kid Sidney Crosby.
Profile: Investing in the Market
We’re not about growth, we’re about serving our market. Ten years ago, we had one aircraft, and people said the business model wouldn’t work” says Wynne Powell, president of London Air Services Limited (LAS). “The scorecard is in, and we’re still here.”
We’re not about growth, we’re about serving our market. Ten years ago, we had one aircraft, and people said the business model wouldn’t work” says Wynne Powell, president of London Air Services Limited (LAS). “The scorecard is in, and we’re still here.”
Total Force
"Total Force” was a buzzword that came into currency in the 1980s to define the concept of Reservists being much more closely integrated into the day-to-day operations of the Regular-Force military than had been the case previously. A need to maximize cost-effectiveness spelled the end of the “two solitudes, us-and-them” mentality that had permeated both Reserve and Regular Force thinking for decades.
"Total Force” was a buzzword that came into currency in the 1980s to define the concept of Reservists being much more closely integrated into the day-to-day operations of the Regular-Force military than had been the case previously. A need to maximize cost-effectiveness spelled the end of the “two solitudes, us-and-them” mentality that had permeated both Reserve and Regular Force thinking for decades.
On-Air Traffic Control
If you tuned in to the airborne traffic report on the drive to work today, chances are you listened to the Canadian Traffic Network (CTN) without even knowing it. The reason: CTN provides the piloted aircraft that broadcasters in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto, Hamilton and Montreal send their traffic reporters aloft in; both on radio and TV. Not only that, CTN’s helicopters play a major role in providing breaking news aerial footage for CanWest stations such as Toronto’s Global Television. Ever seen the sexy shot of the Global Robinson R44 over Toronto, the shot looking forward from the R44’s tail boom? That’s a CTN helicopter you’re actually seeing.
If you tuned in to the airborne traffic report on the drive to work today, chances are you listened to the Canadian Traffic Network (CTN) without even knowing it. The reason: CTN provides the piloted aircraft that broadcasters in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Toronto, Hamilton and Montreal send their traffic reporters aloft in; both on radio and TV. Not only that, CTN’s helicopters play a major role in providing breaking news aerial footage for CanWest stations such as Toronto’s Global Television. Ever seen the sexy shot of the Global Robinson R44 over Toronto, the shot looking forward from the R44’s tail boom? That’s a CTN helicopter you’re actually seeing.
Profile: Technology, Training and Collaboration
On a very windy and stormy evening, the prairie resort community of Lake Newell,100 kilometres southeast of Calgary, was shaken awake in late September 2008 by noise from low flying helicopters and converging emergency services. It would be a startling and highly emotional night where technology, training and cooperation came together to save seven lives including children, police and peace officers.
On a very windy and stormy evening, the prairie resort community of Lake Newell,100 kilometres southeast of Calgary, was shaken awake in late September 2008 by noise from low flying helicopters and converging emergency services. It would be a startling and highly emotional night where technology, training and cooperation came together to save seven lives including children, police and peace officers.
Profile: Present Meets Future
Today’s youth are raised with a heightened awareness of safety. They automatically fasten their seatbelts when driving a car, delegate a designated driver when drinking and know what not to carry aboard an aircraft when travelling. And it is today’s youth that can carry forth this safety mindset into industry to foster a safety culture of best practices in the workplace.
Today’s youth are raised with a heightened awareness of safety. They automatically fasten their seatbelts when driving a car, delegate a designated driver when drinking and know what not to carry aboard an aircraft when travelling. And it is today’s youth that can carry forth this safety mindset into industry to foster a safety culture of best practices in the workplace.
Eurocopter Canada
Eurocopter Canada is marking its 25th anniversary this year. Based in Fort Erie, Ontario, Eurocopter Canada’s 240 employees work in a 135,600 square foot manufacturing facility; finishing and customizing proven Eurocopter rotorcraft like the EC120, EC130, EC135 and AStar AS350 B2/B3. As well, Eurocopter Canada services the approximately 530 Eurocopters currently flying in this country.
Eurocopter Canada is marking its 25th anniversary this year. Based in Fort Erie, Ontario, Eurocopter Canada’s 240 employees work in a 135,600 square foot manufacturing facility; finishing and customizing proven Eurocopter rotorcraft like the EC120, EC130, EC135 and AStar AS350 B2/B3. As well, Eurocopter Canada services the approximately 530 Eurocopters currently flying in this country.
Wings of Life
While its new name is intentionally misspelled, there’s nothing whimsical about Ornge – the former Ontario Air Ambulance Service – as it crosses the province providing lifesaving transport to hospital patients and accident victims alike.
While its new name is intentionally misspelled, there’s nothing whimsical about Ornge – the former Ontario Air Ambulance Service – as it crosses the province providing lifesaving transport to hospital patients and accident victims alike.
In Conversation with Fred Jones
" I am doing something meaningful in an industry I have a passion for. I can make a difference here."
" I am doing something meaningful in an industry I have a passion for. I can make a difference here."
Exploits of an Enduring Enterprise
Since the dawn of aviation, the scheduled airline has been a business model that has challenged entrepreneurs and professional managers alike and has resulted in the failures of many. If operating a scheduled carrier with fixed-wing aircraft is so daunting, imagine the adrenaline rush that comes with using rotary-wing machines.
Since the dawn of aviation, the scheduled airline has been a business model that has challenged entrepreneurs and professional managers alike and has resulted in the failures of many. If operating a scheduled carrier with fixed-wing aircraft is so daunting, imagine the adrenaline rush that comes with using rotary-wing machines.
Helicopter Heroes
Chances are, if you have been in this industry for a few years, you have flown risky missions and saved lives and/or property. For that matter, if you have flown extensively on fire suppression missions or in mountainous/heavily forested terrain, your life has been subjected to emotional stress and physical strain on an almost constant basis.
Chances are, if you have been in this industry for a few years, you have flown risky missions and saved lives and/or property. For that matter, if you have flown extensively on fire suppression missions or in mountainous/heavily forested terrain, your life has been subjected to emotional stress and physical strain on an almost constant basis.
Peak Performance
There are few commercial aircraft operators in this country that have been in business for generations. With 47 years of flight operations experience, Alpine Helicopters of Kelowna is one of them. The company specializes in heli-skiing, heli-hiking, sightseeing tours, forest firefighting, mountain rescue and parks support.
There are few commercial aircraft operators in this country that have been in business for generations. With 47 years of flight operations experience, Alpine Helicopters of Kelowna is one of them. The company specializes in heli-skiing, heli-hiking, sightseeing tours, forest firefighting, mountain rescue and parks support.
Staying the Course
Helicopters are ideally suited for “flying below the radar” on military missions, tactically invisible to enemies but ready for their crews to pop up and do whatever must be done. Stealth is equally prized in the world of corporate combat, even for such a prominent company as CHC Helicopters as it maintains its long-held position as the world’s largest rotary operator.
Helicopters are ideally suited for “flying below the radar” on military missions, tactically invisible to enemies but ready for their crews to pop up and do whatever must be done. Stealth is equally prized in the world of corporate combat, even for such a prominent company as CHC Helicopters as it maintains its long-held position as the world’s largest rotary operator.
Whitney Helicopters
As helicopter companies go, Whitney Helicopters of Fort St. John, B.C. is young.
As helicopter companies go, Whitney Helicopters of Fort St. John, B.C. is young.
Flying Northwestern Quebec
Northwestern Quebec is a wild and rugged land; a place where mineral exploration and mining has long driven the regional economy.
Northwestern Quebec is a wild and rugged land; a place where mineral exploration and mining has long driven the regional economy.
75 Years Young: Is Jock Mackay Hanging up his Wings?
If you’re up in Canada’s Far North this summer, somewhere in the border area between the Yukon and NWT, keep an eye on the skies for Fireweed Helicopters’ blue-and-white Bell JetRanger 206L. If you see it, chances are that Jonathan (Jock) Mackay is at the controls. Don’t be worried that Jock will make a mistake and fall out of the sky; with 56 years of flying experience under his belt, this 75 year-old pilot is no rookie.
If you’re up in Canada’s Far North this summer, somewhere in the border area between the Yukon and NWT, keep an eye on the skies for Fireweed Helicopters’ blue-and-white Bell JetRanger 206L. If you see it, chances are that Jonathan (Jock) Mackay is at the controls. Don’t be worried that Jock will make a mistake and fall out of the sky; with 56 years of flying experience under his belt, this 75 year-old pilot is no rookie.
Pacific Western Helicopters: Doing it all Through Innovation
Although Prince George is only half way between the Canada-U.S. and B.C.-Yukon borders, it is considered “B.C.’s Northern Capital.” Northern B.C. is an immense area, approximately half a million square kilometres, more than twice the size of Great Britain. The headquarters and main base of Pacific Western Helicopters (PWH) are in Prince George, which was established as a fur trading post by Simon Fraser in 1807 and named in honour of King George III.
Although Prince George is only half way between the Canada-U.S. and B.C.-Yukon borders, it is considered “B.C.’s Northern Capital.” Northern B.C. is an immense area, approximately half a million square kilometres, more than twice the size of Great Britain. The headquarters and main base of Pacific Western Helicopters (PWH) are in Prince George, which was established as a fur trading post by Simon Fraser in 1807 and named in honour of King George III.
For the Love of the Business: Transwest’s Progressive Formula
With a warm-hearted smile, Alison Maas called out above the noise as we walked in her direction. “So how was it?” she asked. If the ear-to-ear grin I was wearing wasn't enough of an answer, the giddy laughing of my fellow passengers was a dead giveaway.
With a warm-hearted smile, Alison Maas called out above the noise as we walked in her direction. “So how was it?” she asked. If the ear-to-ear grin I was wearing wasn't enough of an answer, the giddy laughing of my fellow passengers was a dead giveaway.
Remembering Frank Norie: Celebrating a Vancouver Island Flying Legend
Vancouver Island lost a flying and logging legend with the recent passing of Frank Norie. This quiet and modest man once owned Vancouver Island Helicopters; and with his son and current owner, Ken Norie, grew the company into a brilliantly successful operation. In recent years VIH has expanded rapidly by buying up companies at a rate that has astounded industry watchers.
Vancouver Island lost a flying and logging legend with the recent passing of Frank Norie. This quiet and modest man once owned Vancouver Island Helicopters; and with his son and current owner, Ken Norie, grew the company into a brilliantly successful operation. In recent years VIH has expanded rapidly by buying up companies at a rate that has astounded industry watchers.
MD Manna From Heaven: Flying From Arizona to Texas
During a hiatus of helicoptering in Mesa, Ariz., MD Helicopters invited me to help fly its fleet to Houston for the Helicopter Association International convention in February.
During a hiatus of helicoptering in Mesa, Ariz., MD Helicopters invited me to help fly its fleet to Houston for the Helicopter Association International convention in February.
Slimmed Down and Shaped Up: Standard Aero Focuses on Aligning Cultures and Creating Awareness
There’s a story told about NASA back in the 1960s. A visitor walked into one of the buildings and saw a man sweeping the floor. He asked the man what he was doing and the worker replied, “I’m sending a man to the moon.”
There’s a story told about NASA back in the 1960s. A visitor walked into one of the buildings and saw a man sweeping the floor. He asked the man what he was doing and the worker replied, “I’m sending a man to the moon.”
What's in a Name?: Vector Aerospace Expands Services and Establishes a new Identity
What’s the best way to present yourself to the market? That’s probably the most important question that any company needs to answer. And, if you expand your services and capacity, how do you get customers to see you in a new light and stop thinking about you in terms of what you used to be? These are the fundamental challenges that companies need to address when making changes to their organizations.
What’s the best way to present yourself to the market? That’s probably the most important question that any company needs to answer. And, if you expand your services and capacity, how do you get customers to see you in a new light and stop thinking about you in terms of what you used to be? These are the fundamental challenges that companies need to address when making changes to their organizations.
Making it Work the Kokanee Way: BC’s Kokanee Helicopters Fits the Bill
The apple trees have been cut down to make way for a vineyard; grapes have become the crop of choice in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley.
The apple trees have been cut down to make way for a vineyard; grapes have become the crop of choice in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley.
Black Swan Helicopters: The ‘Air Force’ of Berwyn, Alberta
With a population of just 546, the village of Berwyn, Alta. seems an unlikely home for a helicopter charter company. Yet it is: Berwyn is the home of Black Swan Helicopters. Located in the Peace River country on four acres with a 10,000-square-foot hangar and office facilities, Black Swan provides flight services for the oil and gas industry, wildlife managers and regional firefighters.
With a population of just 546, the village of Berwyn, Alta. seems an unlikely home for a helicopter charter company. Yet it is: Berwyn is the home of Black Swan Helicopters. Located in the Peace River country on four acres with a 10,000-square-foot hangar and office facilities, Black Swan provides flight services for the oil and gas industry, wildlife managers and regional firefighters.
Cougar Helicopters: A Canadian Aviation Success Going Global
Rising out of the waters several miles from the shores of Newfoundland, Louisiana and Alaska are metallic behemoths in which people live and work.
Rising out of the waters several miles from the shores of Newfoundland, Louisiana and Alaska are metallic behemoths in which people live and work.
Night Vision Equipment: The Illuminating Work of NRC Aerospace
Flying at night has always been challenging for pilots because of reduced visual information compared to what they see during daytime VFR flights. Military, police, search-and-rescue, and other types of rotary-wing operations sometimes occur over areas where there is little, if any, ambient light. Recognizing these challenges and developing night vision systems for pilots has been part of the work of the National Research Council of Canada Institute for Aerospace Research for more than a decade.
Flying at night has always been challenging for pilots because of reduced visual information compared to what they see during daytime VFR flights. Military, police, search-and-rescue, and other types of rotary-wing operations sometimes occur over areas where there is little, if any, ambient light. Recognizing these challenges and developing night vision systems for pilots has been part of the work of the National Research Council of Canada Institute for Aerospace Research for more than a decade.
Life or Strife?: The Tradeoffs of Living With a Helicopter Pilot
Life or strife? The happiness of a helicopter pilot’s spouse is largely a matter of attitude. Hopefully this will be useful information for the wives or future spouses of helicopter pilots and perhaps informative to married pilots. A word to the wise. I have been married for 39 years to a helicopter pilot and know whereof I speak. There are many good times and there are some really tough times, for both parties.
Life or strife? The happiness of a helicopter pilot’s spouse is largely a matter of attitude. Hopefully this will be useful information for the wives or future spouses of helicopter pilots and perhaps informative to married pilots. A word to the wise. I have been married for 39 years to a helicopter pilot and know whereof I speak. There are many good times and there are some really tough times, for both parties.
Highland Helicopters: Success Based on Safety
Quiet” isn’t something that normally comes to mind when we think about the helicopter industry. The incessant metronome-like pulsing of a main rotor can distract even the most highly focused among us from a great distance, to say nothing of the effect up close. But Highland Helicopters Ltd., which is approaching 50 years of operations, has been, in many ways, just that – quiet. Highland has been slowly and quietly doing its own thing for a long time. Started in Prince George in 1959, there hasn’t been much in the way of high visibility for the highly successful company.
Quiet” isn’t something that normally comes to mind when we think about the helicopter industry. The incessant metronome-like pulsing of a main rotor can distract even the most highly focused among us from a great distance, to say nothing of the effect up close. But Highland Helicopters Ltd., which is approaching 50 years of operations, has been, in many ways, just that – quiet. Highland has been slowly and quietly doing its own thing for a long time. Started in Prince George in 1959, there hasn’t been much in the way of high visibility for the highly successful company.
The Mirabel Gamble: Montreal’s Hélibellule FBO is Paying Off
Mirabel International Airport is a daunting place to launch a new FBO (fixed based operation) helicopter service. The reason: Since November 1, 2004, all passenger flights in and out of Montreal have been routed through the city’s Trudeau (Dorval) airport. Mirabel remains in operation, but only for freight service.
Mirabel International Airport is a daunting place to launch a new FBO (fixed based operation) helicopter service. The reason: Since November 1, 2004, all passenger flights in and out of Montreal have been routed through the city’s Trudeau (Dorval) airport. Mirabel remains in operation, but only for freight service.
Heliports by Design: Ensuring a Safe Landing
Each year, there are thousands of helicopter flights in Canada that begin and end at a heliport designed in accordance with Transport Canada standards. There are 296 heliports in this country; the lowest is located at Vancouver Harbour at an elevation of 2 ft., while the highest is a fire base in Shunda, Alta., 4,700 ft. above sea level.
Each year, there are thousands of helicopter flights in Canada that begin and end at a heliport designed in accordance with Transport Canada standards. There are 296 heliports in this country; the lowest is located at Vancouver Harbour at an elevation of 2 ft., while the highest is a fire base in Shunda, Alta., 4,700 ft. above sea level.
VIH Buys First Canadian EC135
Dec. 21, 2007, Victoria, B.C. - The VIH Aviation Group has purchased and received the first Eurocopter EC135 to be delivered into the Canadian market.
Dec. 21, 2007, Victoria, B.C. - The VIH Aviation Group has purchased and received the first Eurocopter EC135 to be delivered into the Canadian market.
World's Second Helicopter Built in Manitoba in 1937-38
Canada’s first controlled manned vertical flight occurred on a farm in the Homewood area of Manitoba.
Canada’s first controlled manned vertical flight occurred on a farm in the Homewood area of Manitoba.
Jean-Paul Fournier - Canadian Helicopter Pioneer
Fournier so became the first Canadian airman to qualify himself solo on a helicopter, in this case a small R-4 Sikorsky, the first helicopter in the world to be mass produced and exported.
Fournier so became the first Canadian airman to qualify himself solo on a helicopter, in this case a small R-4 Sikorsky, the first helicopter in the world to be mass produced and exported.
Quebec Company Acquires Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Nov. 6, 2007, La Baie, Que. - VISIONAir-UAV located in ‘’La Baie’’ Quebec has just become one of the few civilian companies in North America to own an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). Their new SR 200 arrived after a waiting period of close to a year.
Nov. 6, 2007, La Baie, Que. - VISIONAir-UAV located in ‘’La Baie’’ Quebec has just become one of the few civilian companies in North America to own an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). Their new SR 200 arrived after a waiting period of close to a year.
CHC Orders 12 Sikorsky S-92® Helicopters
Nov. 2, 2007, Stratford, Conn., – Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation announced today that CHC Helicopter Corp. has signed a contract for 12 S-92® helicopters. Sikorsky Aircraft is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp.
Nov. 2, 2007, Stratford, Conn., – Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation announced today that CHC Helicopter Corp. has signed a contract for 12 S-92® helicopters. Sikorsky Aircraft is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp.
Barry Kohler Promoted to V.P, Commercial Production Programs at Bell Helicopter
Oct. 24, 2007 - Fort Worth, TX - Officials from Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company have announced the promotion of Barry Kohler to vice-president, Commercial Production Programs
Oct. 24, 2007 - Fort Worth, TX - Officials from Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company have announced the promotion of Barry Kohler to vice-president, Commercial Production Programs
Lateral Thinking
The most ingenious solutions are often the simplest. Once presented, they usually elicit a collective: “What a great idea!” reaction.
The most ingenious solutions are often the simplest. Once presented, they usually elicit a collective: “What a great idea!” reaction.
Helo Warriors: Rotary-Wing Renewal in the Canadian Forces
The past several years have brought significant – even fundamental – organizational change and operational enhancement to the Canadian Forces in a process that still has years to run.
The past several years have brought significant – even fundamental – organizational change and operational enhancement to the Canadian Forces in a process that still has years to run.
STARS: Alberta's Air Ambulance
Alberta’s Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society has changed significantly from its humble origins only 22 years ago.
Alberta’s Shock Trauma Air Rescue Society has changed significantly from its humble origins only 22 years ago.
VTOL UAVs: Pilotless Rotary-Wing Aircraft
In the 1981 action film “For Your Eyes Only,” James Bond is a passenger on a helicopter that is taken over via radio control and flown violently by the sinister Blofeld.
In the 1981 action film “For Your Eyes Only,” James Bond is a passenger on a helicopter that is taken over via radio control and flown violently by the sinister Blofeld.
Rapid Response
For most Canadians, the beginning of the workweek is almost certain to be predictable and routine: an early morning meeting, sifting through e-mails, a quick trip to Tim Hortons.
For most Canadians, the beginning of the workweek is almost certain to be predictable and routine: an early morning meeting, sifting through e-mails, a quick trip to Tim Hortons.
Who's the Better Pilot - Commercial or Military?
Many pilots have moved from one type of flying to the other and have adjusted quite well, yet others just never seem to be able to make the switch.
Many pilots have moved from one type of flying to the other and have adjusted quite well, yet others just never seem to be able to make the switch.
Sea Kings Continue to Patrol Gulf Region
Canada continues to contribute a Naval Task Group that includes the fleet replenishment ship HMCS Protecteur, the destroyer HMCS Algonquin and the frigate HMCS St. John’s with two Helicopter Air Detachments (HELAIRDETs) from 423 MH Sqn, Shearwater, Nova Scotia ...
Canada continues to contribute a Naval Task Group that includes the fleet replenishment ship HMCS Protecteur, the destroyer HMCS Algonquin and the frigate HMCS St. John’s with two Helicopter Air Detachments (HELAIRDETs) from 423 MH Sqn, Shearwater, Nova Scotia ...
Airborne is All About Solutions
When you walk through the front door of Airborne Energy Solutions in Whitecourt, Alberta, the smiles on the employees’ faces say it all.
When you walk through the front door of Airborne Energy Solutions in Whitecourt, Alberta, the smiles on the employees’ faces say it all.
Comorant One Year Later
Canadian Forces has entered an entirely new and uncharted era of both daily and major maintenance and repair.
Canadian Forces has entered an entirely new and uncharted era of both daily and major maintenance and repair.
New Heart for a Proven Bird
The Robinson R44 II Raven has enjoyed a smooth ride in Canada since the first machine touched down at E&B Helicopters in British Columbia last October.
The Robinson R44 II Raven has enjoyed a smooth ride in Canada since the first machine touched down at E&B Helicopters in British Columbia last October.
Operations: A Crash Course on Insurance
The concept seems simple enough. You pay a legitimate premium, and in return, you’re protected from legitimate financial loss.
The concept seems simple enough. You pay a legitimate premium, and in return, you’re protected from legitimate financial loss.
Big helicopter - Little ship
Just when I thought that learning to fly the Sea King was a workout, I flew out to my first ship. My first time landing on a deck would be to HMCS Iroquois, a destroyer, just off the Nova Scotia coast.
Just when I thought that learning to fly the Sea King was a workout, I flew out to my first ship. My first time landing on a deck would be to HMCS Iroquois, a destroyer, just off the Nova Scotia coast.
The Versatile NH90
What do you do when your nearly 11 tonnes of helicopter is fully inverted at a 45-degree up-angle?
What do you do when your nearly 11 tonnes of helicopter is fully inverted at a 45-degree up-angle?
Sikorsky's Superhawk
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation can be expected to emulate the crews of one of its most high-profile products, the combat-tested UH-60 Black Hawk, striking hard and fast in the corporate dogfight to provide Canada with 28 new shipborne helicopters.
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation can be expected to emulate the crews of one of its most high-profile products, the combat-tested UH-60 Black Hawk, striking hard and fast in the corporate dogfight to provide Canada with 28 new shipborne helicopters.
Going It Alone
For the most part, we work in a single-pilot environment. It is not an unusual occurrence to find ourselves flying alone, bereft of company save the odd mosquito, and left to our individual thoughts and devices.
For the most part, we work in a single-pilot environment. It is not an unusual occurrence to find ourselves flying alone, bereft of company save the odd mosquito, and left to our individual thoughts and devices.
Utility Plus
Agusta Aerospace Corporation, an Agusta Westland Company, signaled its intention to step up its Canadian marketing efforts last September when it appointed Patrick Tavernier regional sales manager for Canada.
Agusta Aerospace Corporation, an Agusta Westland Company, signaled its intention to step up its Canadian marketing efforts last September when it appointed Patrick Tavernier regional sales manager for Canada.
Smoother Ride for Bell
Waiting in the wings is the BA609 and the introduction of tiltrotor technology – an advance that several industry watchers predict has the potential to become the next game changer, especially in the corporate sector.
Waiting in the wings is the BA609 and the introduction of tiltrotor technology – an advance that several industry watchers predict has the potential to become the next game changer, especially in the corporate sector.
The Boss Drives an EC120
June 28th. It is Election Day in Canada and James Boudreault has a lot of ground to cover if he is to return to Quebec City before the polls close.
June 28th. It is Election Day in Canada and James Boudreault has a lot of ground to cover if he is to return to Quebec City before the polls close.
Pure Gold
Some of us dream of becoming a helicopter pilot, some of us fly helicopters recreationally, some of us make a career of it for a few years, but very few of us manage to spend 50 years of our lives under a rotor.
Some of us dream of becoming a helicopter pilot, some of us fly helicopters recreationally, some of us make a career of it for a few years, but very few of us manage to spend 50 years of our lives under a rotor.
One-on-One: Brian Jenner, H.A.C. president
Q: Can you predict the mood of operators going into this show?
Q: Can you predict the mood of operators going into this show?
Power Vision
Heli-Expo 2005 may well be remembered as the event when engine manufacturers flexed their muscle. Honeywell served notice it intends to aggressively restore its place as a major player in the civilian helicopter market. Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) launched the PW210 (see On The Fly) and Lycoming Engine’s new general manager, Ian Walsh, openly discussed the company’s innovation strategy.
Heli-Expo 2005 may well be remembered as the event when engine manufacturers flexed their muscle. Honeywell served notice it intends to aggressively restore its place as a major player in the civilian helicopter market. Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) launched the PW210 (see On The Fly) and Lycoming Engine’s new general manager, Ian Walsh, openly discussed the company’s innovation strategy.
DART Aims High
Using the world’s largest rotary-wing trade show as its backdrop, DART launched DART Helicopter Services, a new helicopter support company that the industry believes will transform the industry by creating a onestop- shop for all operator’s needs.
Using the world’s largest rotary-wing trade show as its backdrop, DART launched DART Helicopter Services, a new helicopter support company that the industry believes will transform the industry by creating a onestop- shop for all operator’s needs.
Flying Offshore or EMS?
With the right Electronic Flight Bag – ‘EFB’ for short – you can carry all the Type A flight information and technical documentation you need in a small electronic package; no books and bags required! Better yet, the most sophisticated EFBs – known as Class III EFBs – can provide a pilot with GPSbased ‘own-ship tracking’ during flight on an electronic ‘moving map,’ and even connect to a Flight Management System (FMS) to help monitor and record the aircraft’s overall performance.
With the right Electronic Flight Bag – ‘EFB’ for short – you can carry all the Type A flight information and technical documentation you need in a small electronic package; no books and bags required! Better yet, the most sophisticated EFBs – known as Class III EFBs – can provide a pilot with GPSbased ‘own-ship tracking’ during flight on an electronic ‘moving map,’ and even connect to a Flight Management System (FMS) to help monitor and record the aircraft’s overall performance.
AB139 is Leading Candidate for Stars Order
As a vital member in the chain of survival, STARS is committed to providing the fastest and most effective service possible to trauma patients. With a 250-kilometre range from its bases in Calgary and Edmonton, STARS is able to serve approximately 90% of Alberta’s population and a portion of southeastern British Columbia.
As a vital member in the chain of survival, STARS is committed to providing the fastest and most effective service possible to trauma patients. With a 250-kilometre range from its bases in Calgary and Edmonton, STARS is able to serve approximately 90% of Alberta’s population and a portion of southeastern British Columbia.
Corporate Copters
he Canadian Business Aviation Association (CBAA) convention and trade show has traditionally presented a platform for fixed-wing manufacturers to showcase their newest, fastest and largest corporate airplanes. But last year’s return of Bell Helicopters and the debut of Eurocopter to the CBAA lineup has signalled an overall shift in thinking about the role of the helicopter as a corporate business tool in Canada.
he Canadian Business Aviation Association (CBAA) convention and trade show has traditionally presented a platform for fixed-wing manufacturers to showcase their newest, fastest and largest corporate airplanes. But last year’s return of Bell Helicopters and the debut of Eurocopter to the CBAA lineup has signalled an overall shift in thinking about the role of the helicopter as a corporate business tool in Canada.
On the Fast Track at Silverline Helicopters
“The simulator gives students extra value for their money. Already we find that students who have been shopping around and know the costs stay to train,” says Ian Rogers, Silverline’s president.
“The simulator gives students extra value for their money. Already we find that students who have been shopping around and know the costs stay to train,” says Ian Rogers, Silverline’s president.
Build It and They Will Come
Combine a passion for flying, an uncanny sense for marketing and a love of people, and you’ve just described Ruedi Hafen. Ruedi is quite possibly Canada’s most famous and beloved heli-tour operator, pilot and heli-entrepreneur.
Combine a passion for flying, an uncanny sense for marketing and a love of people, and you’ve just described Ruedi Hafen. Ruedi is quite possibly Canada’s most famous and beloved heli-tour operator, pilot and heli-entrepreneur.
Helijets: It's How Time Flies
Helijet – in business for 19 years – caters to an affluent crowd, often flying on government or governmentrelated business. Each terminal has a business centre with complimentary newspapers plus coffee and pastries for a pre-flight snack. Shuttle vans provide free transportation from the harbour helipads to the downtown core of each city.
Helijet – in business for 19 years – caters to an affluent crowd, often flying on government or governmentrelated business. Each terminal has a business centre with complimentary newspapers plus coffee and pastries for a pre-flight snack. Shuttle vans provide free transportation from the harbour helipads to the downtown core of each city.
Bush Time
My summer of bloodletting found me in northwestern Ontario working with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) on fire-suppression duties. Truth to tell, the only bloodletting was courtesy of biting insects. A word to the wise: always carry an adequate supply of repellant.
My summer of bloodletting found me in northwestern Ontario working with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (OMNR) on fire-suppression duties. Truth to tell, the only bloodletting was courtesy of biting insects. A word to the wise: always carry an adequate supply of repellant.
Sikorsky's X2 Technology
Although Sikorsky’s fly-by-wire X2 Technology was unveiled only last June, preliminary design was already complete and parts fabrication had begun for an X2 Technology Demonstrator (X2TD) that the company plans to fly at its Schweizer Aircraft subsidiary this year.
Although Sikorsky’s fly-by-wire X2 Technology was unveiled only last June, preliminary design was already complete and parts fabrication had begun for an X2 Technology Demonstrator (X2TD) that the company plans to fly at its Schweizer Aircraft subsidiary this year.
HAWCS: Calgary's Eye in the Sky
Calgary’s Helicopter Air Watch for Community Safety program began as a research project in 1992. Although the project was found to be highly successful, it was deemed too expensive to operate given the Calgary Police Service budget. The project was temporarily put aside until such an operation would become financially feasible.
Calgary’s Helicopter Air Watch for Community Safety program began as a research project in 1992. Although the project was found to be highly successful, it was deemed too expensive to operate given the Calgary Police Service budget. The project was temporarily put aside until such an operation would become financially feasible.
Running in Fast Water
According to Honeywell’s Annual Turbine-Powered Civil Helicopter Purchase Outlook, civil helicopter deliveries were up a whopping 24% in 2005.
According to Honeywell’s Annual Turbine-Powered Civil Helicopter Purchase Outlook, civil helicopter deliveries were up a whopping 24% in 2005.
Peregrine Helicopters
When John Saunders entered the helicopter business 34 years ago as an apprentice AME, he never expected to track grizzly bears by air...
When John Saunders entered the helicopter business 34 years ago as an apprentice AME, he never expected to track grizzly bears by air...
Hayes Develops Worldwide Presence
Hayes Helicopter Services Ltd. has been making a name for itself in British Columbia aviation for some time. But for the Duncan-based company, a subsidiary of Hayes Forest Services Ltd., a slowdown in its mainstay helicopter logging work is forcing corporate decision makers to explore new markets and services...
Hayes Helicopter Services Ltd. has been making a name for itself in British Columbia aviation for some time. But for the Duncan-based company, a subsidiary of Hayes Forest Services Ltd., a slowdown in its mainstay helicopter logging work is forcing corporate decision makers to explore new markets and services...
Above & Beyond
Corporate helicopters are a specialty market that has developed in the US but largely has yet to catch on in Canada. Many large urban centres worldwide have established corporate helicopter services catering to a wealthy business clientele.
Corporate helicopters are a specialty market that has developed in the US but largely has yet to catch on in Canada. Many large urban centres worldwide have established corporate helicopter services catering to a wealthy business clientele.
Craig Dobbin R.I.P.
Craig Dobbin, the Newfoundland entrepreneur who built up a huge worldwide helicopter charter operation, died this past October at his home in Beachy Cove, near St. John’s where he was born on Sept. 13, 1935.
Craig Dobbin, the Newfoundland entrepreneur who built up a huge worldwide helicopter charter operation, died this past October at his home in Beachy Cove, near St. John’s where he was born on Sept. 13, 1935.
There's No Lift Like It
Any day now – perhaps already by the time you read this – Boeing Aerospace expects to finally get a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) which should lead to the Canadian Forces finally getting new medium-to-heavy lift helicopters.
Any day now – perhaps already by the time you read this – Boeing Aerospace expects to finally get a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) which should lead to the Canadian Forces finally getting new medium-to-heavy lift helicopters.
To Fly Is Human ... To Hover, Divine
Imagine being able to go fishing, mountain heli-hiking, or beachcombing in a vast wilderness; all while enjoying the amenities of a top-end BC resort.
Imagine being able to go fishing, mountain heli-hiking, or beachcombing in a vast wilderness; all while enjoying the amenities of a top-end BC resort.
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