Bristow continues drive to develop new talent in aviation


Helicentre Aviation and Bristow believe in introducing future helicopter pilots to offshore careers at an early stage. Bristow Photo

Bristow Group Inc. has launched its third U.K. offshore helicopter pilot cadet program, aimed at attracting a new generation of aviators to the industry, in partnership with Helicentre Aviation.

Would-be pilots can now apply for Bristow’s latest fully funded program, which will see four cadets ultimately selected to undergo training with Helicentre at Leicester Airport.

Established in 2018, the program provides a pathway to enable cadets to graduate and transition from training straight into employment with Bristow, where they will gain type ratings and begin their career as First Officers. Graduates from previous courses, are already flying with Bristow from locations around the U.K. supporting commercial air transport and Search and Rescue operations.

During the program, cadets will progress from ab-initio to instrument-rated commercial pilot on an Integrated CPL(H) course, followed by the Multi-Engine IR course, spanning a total of 15 months.

Bristow is the only U.K. North Sea helicopter operator which continues to sponsor the future helicopter pilot workforce through its cadet scheme, including offering funding for Instrument Ratings to pilots already holding a Commercial Pilots License.

The company recently strengthened its relationship with Helicentre through a shared commitment to continue combining the organization’s expertise, and to shape the future pilot workforce through career events, sponsorship and scholarship initiatives.

“Aviation is constantly evolving to meet the needs of the people and industries who rely on aircraft to safely travel to work and deliver vital resources in one of the harshest operating environments in aviation,” said Matt Rhodes, director UK Oil & Gas at Bristow, the world’s largest helicopter operator.

“Our commitment to funding the next generation has continued for decades and our close working relationship with Helicentre has helped to not only develop commercial helicopter pilots for the future but also to make what is for many a dream job, a reality.

“Ensuring that we offer the very best, operator-focused training, and support the cadets selected as they progress through the cadetship, is our focus and we look forward to welcoming them onto the course.”

Neil Ebberson, director of UK search and rescue at Bristow, said: “Through our commitment to providing rewarding and challenging aviation career opportunities, a number of recent graduates of the cadetship program have joined the UKSAR team.

“By building on the skills learned through the cadetship, further enhanced by working in a multicrew environment, successful cadets from previous program now play a key part in the successful operational delivery of the world-class Search and Rescue services we deliver in the U.K. and internationally.”

During training, the cadets will have access to Bristow’s flight simulator hall at Dyce, Aberdeen. The purpose-built center is the only facility of its kind in the U.K. and hosts three full-motion helicopter simulators which use advanced motion technology, combined with realistic visuals to replicate the experience of flying Leonardo AW189, Sikorsky S-92 and S-76 aircraft.

Applications for the Bristow Cadet Program are now open, with selection expected to be confirmed for July, ahead of training commencing in September at Helicentre Aviation’s training center, at Leicester Airport.

Full details about the program can be found at www.flyheli.co.uk/bristow where those who meet the pre-requisite requirements can register their interest and complete an online application.

This press release was prepared and distributed by Bristow Group Inc.

  
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