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Airbus Helicopters donates vital training aid to BCIT aerospace facility

May 22, 2014 – The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) has received the donation of an AS350 helicopter from Airbus Helicopters Canada. The AS350 will be used to help train the next generation of aircraft maintenance engineers at the BCIT Aerospace Technology Campus in Richmond, B.C.

The AS350 model is a very popular aircraft and makes up 76 percent of the Airbus Helicopters flying in Canada. Locally, the AS350 is integral to the aerospace requirements of fire-fighting, heli-skiing, tourism, forestry, mining and many other industries across British Columbia. Having direct access to this aircraft will provide BCIT students with the opportunity to learn and practice on equipment they will encounter when entering the aerospace industry. The AS350 is utilized in a number of training programs including the aircraft maintenance engineer program.

“This donation is a reflection of Airbus Helicopters’ strong commitment to aviation and aerospace in Canada. As the leading helicopter manufacturer, we understand very well the value of investing in young people who want to have a career in aviation,” said Romain Trapp, president, Airbus Helicopters Canada. “We know that their educational success helps to ensure the continued success of the aviation and aerospace industry in Canada.”

“BCIT values our outstanding relationship with Airbus Helicopters Canada and receiving a training aid like the AS350 B2 allows our faculty to create training scenarios for students that simulate industry situations and leverages Airbus Helicopters excellent technology,” said Gordon Turner, associate dean of the BCIT Aerospace Technology Campus.