Helicentre Aviation is to become the exclusive provider of ab-initio commercial pilot training for Bristow Group.
Bristow will support Helicentre with the promotion of future pilot career events, actively support the development and mentoring of future aviators and engage with those training to become helicopter pilots at the early stage of their career.
In return Helicentre will be Bristow’s preferred provider of ab-initio pilot training and recruitment in the UK, supporting the sponsored programmes run by Bristow.
Cadets will have access to Bristow’s flight ops team, which support both commercial air transport and search and rescue activities, with the ability to visit live operations.
Helicentre already operates Bristow’s sponsored UK cadet programme. The programme provides fully funded training, from ab-initio to commercial pilot on an Integrated CPL(H) course.
Bristow also funds training for a multi-engine instrument rating under its UK cadet programme. The UK sponsored programme selects a number of candidates annually, with over a thousand applications being received for the most recent course.
On completion of initial pilot training, pilots undergo further training with Bristow’s operational fleet. This specialised training is normally completed at Bristow’s training facility in Dyce, Aberdeen, which is the only facility of its kind in the UK. The purpose-built centre has three helicopter simulators which use advanced full motion technology, combined with realistic visuals to replicate the experience of flying either the Leonardo AW189, Sikorsky S.92 or S76 types.
“The signing of the MOU with Helicentre formalises a successful relationship that has been ongoing for the last 3-4 years,” said Matt Rhodes, Bristow UK Director.
“Helicentre is a key ab-initio training organisation in the UK and the support they have provided Bristow with our sponsored cadet programme has been invaluable. The formalising of this relationship once again highlights Bristow’s commitment to nurturing the aviators of the future.”
Helicentre hosts regular open days and virtual seminars with Bristow to provide an opportunity for those interested to find out more about the training they provide, sponsored programmes, visit the training centre, and speak to members of the team about the career opportunities available to aspiring pilots.
Both companies will announce the open dates for sponsorship later this year. The full-time, 12-month course is a fast-track and cost-effective route to becoming a professional helicopter pilot, and it is the only integrated rotary CPL course approved in the UK.
“We take great pride in training pilots to fly for Bristow,” said Chris Line, Helicentre Aviation Chairman.
“The added incentive students receive as a result of ongoing interaction with one of the largest operators of rotary aircraft in the UK, adds to the overall gold standard training experience they can’t get anywhere else,”.
