Preparing for Wildfire Season

Blackcomb Helicopters is gearing up for the wildfire season with advanced real scenario-based training and team readiness. 

As the challenges of wildfire season approach, Blackcomb Helicopters is diligently preparing with real scenario-based training and team readiness, with the season just months away.

On May 1st, 2024, Blackcomb Helicopters participated in a multi-agency wildfire training session with Whistler Fire Rescue Service, Whistler Blackcomb, and BC Wildfire. This collaborative training involved a staging scenario where all fire crews worked together to eradicate a simulated fire threat. Blackcomb Helicopters played a vital role by using a Bambi bucket to drop water on a staged fire spark. 

"Blackcomb Helicopters played a crucial role in supporting firefighting crews throughout the challenging 2023 wildfire season amidst exceptionally hot conditions and stand ready to support our communities once again," says Chris Haslock, Director of Operations. "While Mother Nature remains unpredictable, the intensity and duration of wildfires appear to be on the rise," Haslock continues. 

Blackcomb Helicopters is committed to supporting the community and prioritises safety and training as core values. Blackcomb Helicopters new Advanced Training Centre is actively conducting long-line and bucketing capability training sessions in readiness for the wildfire season. 

During periods of High and Extreme fire risk, the average aircraft lift-off times range from 5 to 10 minutes. First drop times vary based on the fire's location relative to the water source, with the water buckets capable of filling from extremely small water sources in just 10 seconds. Moreover, all equipment is designed for swift swapping or application without the need for tools. Blackcomb Helicopters team undergoes rigorous training to ensure that the firefighting aircraft can be ready in the time it takes you to read this sentence. 

Blackcomb Helicopter firefighting efforts are led by local employees who are committed to assisting their communities during emergencies and extend firefighting support across Canada, with their crews proud to contribute to national firefighting initiatives. 

ABOUT BLACKCOMB HELICOPTERS   

Established in 1989 in Whistler, British Columbia, Blackcomb Helicopters has always prioritized its community ties and the well-being of the regions we serve. With expertise and passion, we offer remote mountain access and a comprehensive array of aviation services throughout Southwestern BC and Alberta. From tourism to search-and-rescue, heli-skiing to utilities and firefighting, safety is not just our policy; it's our core value, shaping every operation. Our commitment to excellence has earned us a loyal customer base, while our adventure tourism division, AlpX Expeditions and Tyax Adventures continues to deliver thrilling experiences grounded in safety and community engagement.   

Proudly 100% carbon offset since 2019, we remain dedicated to sustainability and environmental responsibility, ensuring that our flights not only elevate experiences but also preserve the landscapes we cherish.  

Blackcomb Helicopters: Celebrating 35 Years of Passion and Excellence

Blackcomb Helicopters, founded in 1989, is delighted to celebrate its 35th year of operation. For over three decades, Blackcomb Helicopters has proudly served as a leader in aviation across Western Canada, earning a reputation for exceptional expertise and unwavering dedication. 

Established in 1989 in the heart of Whistler, British Columbia, Blackcomb Helicopters was founded by Steve and Michelle Flynn, initially operating with a single Bell 206 helicopter stationed in the Rainbow Mountain area. Blackcomb Helicopters initially offered a range of services from tourism adventures to critical support in wildfires, and search-and-rescue missions. 

Fast forward to 2006, a pivotal year when Blackcomb Helicopters was acquired by MCM Aviation, a joint venture between the McLean Group and Omega Aviation. Under the leadership of John Morris, Jason McLean, and Sacha McLean, Blackcomb Helicopters has experienced remarkable growth while maintaining its commitment to community and regional support. 

“The decision to acquire Blackcomb Helicopters was inspired by my brother Sacha, who has always been a passionate aviation enthusiast. And when John Morris came into the picture, our aviation trajectory was truly set and we haven’t looked back.” explained Jason McLean, Chief Executive Officer of McLean Group. 

Today, Blackcomb Helicopters are proud leaders with specialised services including hydro operations, mining support, emergency services, firefighting, advanced training, tourism adventures, and more – all guided by a commitment to people and safety. 

“Our enduring motivation in the aviation business stems from a dedication to our customers and employees. Supporting our community is incredibly fulfilling, as is working with passionate professionals who care a great deal about their work and the people it serves.” Jason added. 

Blackcomb Helicopters now operates a fleet of twenty helicopters across seven hangars in Whistler, Pemberton, Squamish, Lillooet, Calgary, Terrace, and the newest addition, Boundary Bay. 

Today, Blackcomb Helicopters unveils its latest achievement: a state-of-the-art hangar at Boundary Bay Airport in Delta, BC. This expansion not only establishes a new base but also enhances advanced training facilities, reinforcing the company’s pursuit of excellence. 

“Our original base at Vancouver International Airport was unnecessary for our operations. Boundary Bay offers exceptional facilities and convenient access for our teams who were originally traveling long distances between the Lower Mainland and Pemberton,” shared Sacha McLean, Chair of McLean Group. “Our commitment to excellence and community support drives everything we do.”

Blackcomb Helicopters’ adventure tourism division, AlpX Expeditions and Tyax Adventures, continue to thrive by offering experiences in Whistler, British Columbia and the South Chilcotin. With this expansion into Boundary Bay, Blackcomb Helicopters anticipates substantial growth.

“I learned to fly helicopters in Boundary Bay in 1996, just 100 feet from our new Hangar. Establishing a base here feels like returning home,” expressed Sacha. 

Since 2019, Blackcomb Helicopters has proudly achieved 100% carbon offset status, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. 

As Blackcomb Helicopters celebrates 35 years of passion and excellence, the company eagerly anticipates continuing to lead the way in shaping the future of aviation through innovation, safety, and a steadfast commitment to excellence with a whole lot of heart. 

Blackcomb Helicopters’ New Investment: Elevating Safety & Skill in Utility Operations With a New Powerline Training Facility Operations

Blackcomb Helicopters proudly announces their Powerline Training Facility, a significant addition to its Advanced Training Center. The new facility marks a considerable investment in safety and skill development. 

The purpose-built training facility, in Pemberton, British Columbia, stands as a testament to Blackcomb Helicopters commitment to excellence in utility operations, offering a controlled and safe environment where crew can hone their abilities and ensure precision performance in the field.

“Our goal with the Powerline Training Facility is to enhance safety and proficiency,” says Andrew Bradley, Business Development Manager at Blackcomb Helicopters. “Previously, our teams encountered challenging environments whilst on site. Now, this facility allows them to practice and perfect specific tasks before applying them.”

A Vision Realized: Building for Safety & Skill

Recognizing the need for realistic, hands-on training that mirrors the challenges of today's utility tasks, Blackcomb Helicopters set out to create a facility that would provide an accessible, safe and realistic environment for skill development. Alongside the Base at the Pemberton Airport (CYPS), this facility represents a significant milestone in advancing safety standards and operational proficiency.

Replicating Real-World Scenarios: Advanced Training

The Blackcomb Helicopters Powerline Training Facility was specifically crafted to replicate the intricacies of existing  utility systems. The training facility includes:

• A double circuit, 138KV monopole with 5 structures

• A self-supporting lattice tower

• A single circuit, 230KV H-frame with 4 structures

• Practice H-frame structure

• 2 culverts for pole sets

Elevating Expertise: Excellence in Action

The training offered covers a wide variety of exercises ensuring comprehensive skill development for pilots, hoist technicians, and linemen. Participants can engage in exercises including but not limited to:

• Class D Hoist/winch operations

• Class D Fixed Line procedures

• Pole setting

• Timber (H-frame) removal and installation

• Ice removal

• Reinforcing steel towers

• Picking conductor

• Cross-arm changes

• Installing conductor carts

• Removal and installation of marker balls

• Spacer Damper removal and installation

• Pulling sock line

• Glass changes

Setting a New Standard: Reach Out

This significant investment stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment Blackcomb Helicopters has in safety, excellence, and innovation with utility operations, ultimately raising the bar for safety and efficiency in the field.  

For more information or to inquire about utilizing this incredible resource, please contact info@blackcombhelicopters.com or call 604.938.1700.

International Women's Day

Today, at Blackcomb Helicopters, we're proud to celebrate International Women's Day! From pilots to engineers, stores to technical records, we honor the incredible contributions of women in our industry and beyond. Let's continue to uplift, empower, and advocate for gender equality, not just today, but every day.

Thank you to our incredible workforce across all departments. Here's to Alli, Amy, Beth, Bobbi, Brooke, Brooke, Chelsea, Fiona, Glori, Hilda, Isabel, Joanne, Kayleigh, Kitty, Kylie, Lenna, Lisa, Lys, Maria, Nas, Nicola, Nyckeija, Sam, Sandra, Shannon, Sidonie, Tamara, Tia, Tracy, Vicky, and all those who have helped contribute to Blackcomb Helicopters!

Onboard Systems Announces Blackcomb Helicopters as Canadian Launch Customer for Forthcoming Medium Bell HEC Dual Cargo Hook System

Onboard Systems International, LLC, a leading provider of innovative helicopter cargo hook equipment, announced that Blackcomb Helicopters LP of British Columbia, Canada, has committed to purchase four Medium Bell HEC Dual Cargo Hook Systems at the 2024 HAI Heli-Expo in Anaheim, California. Onboard's Medium Bell HEC Dual Cargo Hook System is in development and is expected to receive FAA and Transport Canada STC certification by the end of 2024.

"In addition to the recently developed Bell 429 HEC system, we've had numerous operators request a medium Bell dual cargo hook HEC system," said Mike Fox, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Onboard Systems. "As we wrap up our Bell 429 HEC certification, we're turning our focus to this program in order to meet the strong, existing demand for an Onboard solution."

According to Chris Haslock, Director of Operations for Blackcomb Helicopters, "We have a number of medium Bells in our fleet, and we're looking forward to expanding our mission capabilities with Onboard's new HEC system. We especially appreciate that Onboard's new system works in conjunction with our existing cargo hook, greatly minimizing the cost and installation effort to retrofit our fleet."

Onboard's new medium Bell HEC Dual Cargo Hook System will be certified to meet the requirements of 14 CFR 29.865 for Human External Cargo (HEC) for the Bell 204B, Bell 205A, Bell 212, Bell 412, and UH-1 models. The dedicated HEC module will be attached to the airframe in very close proximity to the primary (non-HEC) cargo hook, simplifying installation and removal for mission-specific configurations. Its location minimizes the impact on aircraft balance during normal operation and in event of a load transfer between hooks.

The HEC system features Onboard's acclaimed TALON® LC Hydraulic Cargo Hook. The hook's keeperless design eliminates dynamic rollout risk, a critical safety factor considering the nature of HEC missions. The HEC hook will be rated for lifting 1,300 lb. (590 kg), which will be the highest HEC capacity on the market for this aircraft. Options for adding an Onboard Weighing System will also be available.

Onboard Systems looks forward to welcoming visitors at the Signia Aerospace Heli-Expo booth (1631) to answer questions about all of their external load mission equipment, including cargo hooks, load weigh systems, and HEC-specific equipment.

About Onboard Systems
Onboard Systems International, LLC (www.onboardsystems.com) is a leading global provider of external cargo handling equipment for civil and military rotorcraft. Onboard's portfolio of innovative, holistic cargo hook systems, human external cargo (HEC) systems, Onboard Weighing Systems and mission-specific remote equipment is factory-installed on over 30 helicopter models serving both OEM and aftermarket customers. Its lightweight, high-quality products provide operators with increased safety and cost efficiencies through customer-driven designs, responsive service and support, and flexible maintenance options. Founded in 1975, Onboard Systems is based in Vancouver, Washington and operates as part of Signia Aerospace, a global integrated provider of high-performance systems and specialized components for the aerospace and defense industry.

About Blackcomb Helicopters
Blackcomb Helicopters (www.blackcombhelicopters.com) was founded in 1989 in Whistler, British Columbia, where its fleet has grown to include twenty helicopters and sixty aviation professionals working from six main bases in Alberta and BC, serving all over Western Canada, the US Pacific Northwest, and points beyond. Blackcomb Helicopters is the region's leading independent helicopter charter company. The Blackcomb Helicopters fleet utilizes Bell 212, Airbus AS350/H125, and H135 helicopters to perform an array of specialized aerial operations, with clients spanning a diverse spectrum of key industries, businesses, and public services.

Blackcomb Helicopters Monitoring Fleet with Foresight MX HUMS

Blackcomb installing Foresight MX on 4 x EC135 and 4 x Bell 212HP

 GPMS International announced today that Blackcomb Helicopters, a leading helicopter utility provider in Western Canada, has chosen to equip their four Airbus EC135s and four Bell 212HPs with the industry’s leading health and usage monitoring system, Foresight MX.  

“Blackcomb Helicopters choosing to equip their fleet with Foresight MX HUMS is turning point for utility operators in Canada,” said John Byus, Director of Sales at GPMS.  “With their investment, Blackcomb will benefit from Foresight’s predictive maintenance capabilities for better control of their supply chain, reduction in AOG’s, and maximized aircraft availability. Additionally, they benefit from a unified solution over multiple OEMs and aircraft models to simplify their maintenance and operational HUMS experience.”  

Aaron Trimble, Director of Maintenance at Blackcomb Helicopters adds, “When you have unscheduled maintenance, it doesn’t just affect the downtime of the aircraft.  When you’re having to source parts AOG, your costs go up.  You’re having to fly the parts in.  But if you’re able to plan ahead, you’re not having to go AOG and your customers, engineers, and of course your management are all happier.  Being able to be more proactive than reactive, while benefiting from the added safety, is what we’re really looking forward to.”

“Some of our contracts mandate the use of HUMS to ensure we’re operating to the highest levels of safety,” said Jonathan Burke, President of Blackcomb Helicopters.  “When we evaluated various HUMS solutions to meet the requirement, Foresight MX stood out quickly for its simplicity, powerful predictive analytics, and the expertise and customer support from the GPMS team.  The initial installation with GPMS has gone seamlessly and we’re looking forward to start using the system after certification has been completed.”

Byus continues, “We’re honored to have Blackcomb as one of our customers and we look forward to learning more from them on how we can better support their utility, powerline, and search and rescue operations.  We know other EC135 operators are anxiously awaiting for the certification to be completed and see how Blackcomb is benefiting from it.”

Founded in Whistler, British Columbia and operating in its 35th year, Blackcomb Helicopters is the leading helicopter touring and heli-services company in Western Canada. 100% carbon neutral, Blackcomb provides heli-tourism, utility and civil services and operates from bases at Boundary Bay Airport (Delta), Whistler, Pemberton, Squamish, Sechelt, Lillooet, Terrace, and Calgary, AB (Springbank Airport). Blackcomb is a member of the McLean Group of Companies, a diversified portfolio of privately held businesses.
blackcombhelicopters.com / mcleangroup.com

For more information: 

GPMS
Ronnie Ries – 817-789-9680 / ronnie@gpms-vt.com

Blackcomb Helicopters
Jonathan Burke – 604-831-3334 / JBurke@blackcombhelicopters.com

Blackcomb Helicopters' new board director Nick Salisbury brings deep utility and aviation experience

On behalf of the owners and board of directors of Blackcomb Helicopters, we are pleased to announce the appointment of Nick Salisbury as a Director of each of the Blackcomb Helicopters companies effective January 1, 2024.  This is Blackcomb's first new director appointment since McLean Group ownership started and reflects both their high regard of Nick and what they see as an inflection point in the company's growth story, requiring outside perspective and experience.

With more than 25 years experience in geotechnical drilling and more than 10 years experience in design and construction of specialty foundations, Nick is listed as a primary inventor on five U.S. patents and has two international patents pending. Nick founded Crux Subsurface, a geotechnical exploration and construction company in 1998 and in 2012  sold the business to Quanta Services Company a world-wide leader in Energy related construction. Nick continued as President of Crux, a Quanta Services Company, until 2020. Throughout his tenure at Crux and Quanta, a large percentage of their infrastructure design and construction projects have been completed using helicopter operations. Through much of his career Nick has overseen utility scale electrical transmission construction including, greenfield, congested corridor, and fire hardening projects. He has championed new processes and procedures for helicopter assisted foundation and overhead structure and conductor installation on some of North Americas largest and most critical projects.  Through this experience, Nick has developed extensive relationships with helicopter operators in Canada and the USA.

More recently, Nick acquired and serves as Chief Executive Officer of EmpireAir, LLC which is a Spokane-based air charter operator which is pursuing full Part 135 operations with a fleet of turbo prop aircraft primarily serving the Pacific Northwest region.

Jason D.D. McLean

Chair, Blackcomb Helicopters

CEO, McLean Group

Loft Dynamics VR Flight Simulator Acquired By Blackcomb Helicopters To Enhance Its Operations

Loft Dynamics Expands to Canada. Leading Helicopter Company in Pacific Northwest Taps Loft’s H125 Simulator to Advance Safety, Sustainability, and Growth Initiatives.

ZURICH and VANCOUVER, June 29, 2023 / Loft Dynamics AG (formerly VRM Switzerland), creator of the world's first and only virtual reality (VR) simulator authorized by a major aviation regulator, today announced its expansion into Canada and a first-of-its-kind partnership with Blackcomb Helicopters LP. As the leading helicopter tour and utility company in the Pacific Northwest and Western Canada, Blackcomb Helicopters will leverage Loft Dynamics’ simulator to increase its flight training capabilities while also removing the inherent safety risks and the carbon emissions of in-flight training. Both Loft Dynamics and Blackcomb Helicopters will be working closely with Transport Canada (TC) to demonstrate the technology’s safety and training value across Canadian aviation.

Blackcomb Helicopters will operate Loft Dynamics' VR Airbus H125 training device at its Boundary Bay Airport location, in Metro Vancouver. The simulator, developed in collaboration with Airbus Helicopters’ leading engineers and test pilots, is an exact replica of the Airbus H125 helicopter—the most widely used aircraft by both Airbus Helicopters and Blackcomb Helicopters. Equipped with a 3D high-resolution panoramic view, dynamic six-degrees-of-motion platform, and full-replica cockpit featuring a unique pose tracking system, the simulator offers realistic and intuitive operation. Notably, it is the world's first and only VR flight simulation training device (FSTD), having achieved FTD Level 3 qualification from EASA (equivalent to FAA FTD7). This qualification allows pilots to complete proficiency checks, periodic H125 flight training, and operational check rides from the device.

“Our pilots regularly navigate challenging coastal and mountainous conditions, but adequately training for these scenarios is inherently dangerous,” said Chris Haslock, Blackcomb’s Director of Operations. “With Loft Dynamics simulators, we’re able to customize weather conditions, visual cues, and landscapes based on what is typically encountered, so it’s the exact in-flight experience without compromising safety and with zero carbon emissions. It’s a complete game-changer.”

Chris Haslock
Blackcomb’s Director of Operations

"We’re thrilled to partner with a highly respected helicopter operator like Blackcomb,” said Fabi Riesen, founder and CEO of Loft Dynamics. “Our technology has significantly improved pilot safety and skills for companies operating in similarly complex conditions and scenarios, whether it’s search and rescue missions in the Swiss Alps or heli tours in the Colorado Rockies. We look forward to bringing these benefits to Blackcomb and working together to showcase a more sustainable, safe, and scalable future for aviation––in Canada and beyond.”

Fabi Riesen
Founder & CEO Loft Dynamics

About Blackcomb Helicopters

Founded in Whistler, British Columbia, and operating for over 30 years, Blackcomb Helicopters is the leading helicopter touring and heli-services company in Western Canada. 100% carbon neutral, Blackcomb provides heli-tourism, utility, and civil services and operates from bases at Boundary Bay Airport (Delta, BC), Whistler, Pemberton, Squamish, Sechelt, Lillooet, Terrace, and Calgary, AB (Springbank Airport). Blackcomb is a member of the McLean Group of Companies, a diversified portfolio of privately held businesses.

www.blackcombhelicopters.com

www.mcleangroup.com

About Loft Dynamics

Loft Dynamics AG (formerly VRM Switzerland) is a market-leading company specializing in VR training devices for helicopter pilots. Founded in 2016, our mission is to revolutionize global aviation with cutting-edge VR flight simulators. Equipped with a 3D high-resolution panoramic view, dynamic six-degrees-of-motion platform, and full-scale replica cockpit with a unique pose tracking system, our simulators provide an immersive, realistic, customizable, and risk-free training experience. By offering a training solution 10 times smaller and 20 times less expensive than traditional simulators, we enhance training accessibility and scalability, empowering highly skilled pilots to meet global demand. As the world's first and only qualified VR flight simulation training device (FSTD), achieving FTD Level 3 qualification from EASA, we serve leading manufacturers, airlines, operators, schools, and organizations worldwide. Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, our team comprises passionate engineers, developers, and aviation experts.

Blackcomb Helicopters Appoints Jonathan Burke as President and Accountable Executive

WHISTLER, BC // June 1, 2023 - Blackcomb Helicopters (Blackcomb) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jonathan Burke as Blackcomb’s new President and Accountable Executive. An advisor and former executive with Blackcomb, Mr. Burke will be rejoining Blackcomb’s team in British Columbia and Alberta to lead the company’s growth strategy.

Mr. Burke will oversee the company’s operations in addition to driving Blackcomb’s growth in the utility and energy sector together with an expanded offering in backcountry tourism and advanced flight operations.

Mr. Burke brings over 30 years of experience to his role and is a commercial helicopter pilot with an Airline Transport Pilot rating. In addition to his aviation credentials, Mr. Burke has an MBA from Athabasca University with post-graduate studies at the Wharton School and Stanford.

“Our entire team is thrilled to have Jonathan back with us once again as our President and Accountable Executive. Jonathan has unparalleled strategic insight and a depth of industry experience, in addition to operating with our shared values of safety, sustainability and doing things right,” said Jason McLean Blackcomb Helicopters Chair and McLean Group CEO.

In recent years, Blackcomb Helicopters has significantly grown its tourism operations with the acquisition of Tyax Adventures and the creation of AlpX Expeditions, a dedicated backcountry tourism operation. Blackcomb’s year-around offerings include heli-skiing, heli-hiking, weddings, picnics and touring, in addition to a special-built alpine trail network that is exclusively accessible by helicopter. Blackcomb’s robust utility, search-and-rescue, and firefighting capabilities were also significantly expanded with the 2021 acquisition of Elbow River Helicopters, based in Springbank, Alberta.

Blackcomb Helicopters announces new SW British Columbia investments with acquisition of Tyax Adventures and creation of AlpX Expeditions

WHISTLER, BC / April 7, 2022 - Blackcomb Helicopters (Blackcomb) is expanding its long-term investment in SW British Columbia with the purchase of Tyax Adventures and the introduction of AlpX Expeditions, a new dedicated backcountry tourism operation.

“Providing unique outdoor recreation and tourism experiences is what Blackcomb Helicopters and AlpX Expeditions is all about,” said Tim Boyle, Blackcomb’s General Manager. “As a part of our growing catalogue of adventures, tours, and backcountry trips that will be provided under the AlpX brand, we are thrilled to be welcoming Tyax Adventures and Tyax Air Service to the Blackcomb team, continuing this world-renowned operation that was started almost 25 years ago.”

Alpx Expeditions will increase Blackcomb’s year-around offerings of heli-hiking, weddings, picnics and ski touring including a new special-built alpine bike trail network that is exclusively accessible by helicopter. More information on AlpX and heli-biking will be released in Spring, 2022.

The Tyax Adventures acquisition will provide further depth to the AlpX offering with access to the South Chilcotin Provincial Park via float plane charters to backcountry camps and adventures including, mountain biking and hiking. The rare and isolated beauty of this region is unparalleled and the operation will continue under the leadership of Tyax Adventures founding family member, Bobbi Douglas. For the 2022 season Tyax Adventures returns to its original base at Tyax Lodge on Tyaughton Lake.

Tyax Adventures Founder Dale Douglas added:

Creating and building Tyax Adventures has been a great journey for myself and our family. When Jane and I started thinking of finding the next owner, it was important to us that they shared the commitment of responsible, sustainable operations and also would carry on the key community relationships and Indigenous partnerships that have been so critical to our success in the Bridge River Valley. Blackcomb Helicopters clearly shares these values and is the right owner to take Tyax Adventures into the future.

—Dale Douglas

About Blackcomb Helicopters (blackcombhelicopters.com / mcleangroup.com )
Founded in Whistler, British Columbia and operating for over 30 years, Blackcomb Helicopters is the leading helicopter touring and heli-services company in the pacific northwest. 100% carbon offset, Blackcomb provides heli-tourism, utility and civil services and operates from bases at Vancouver International Airport, Whistler, Pemberton, Squamish, Sechelt, Lillooet, Terrace and Springbank, AB. Blackcomb is a member of the McLean Group of Companies, a diversified portfolio of privately held businesses. Learn more here.

For more information:
Jordy Norris – 604-698-5235 / JNorris@blackcombhelicopters.com

Blackcomb Helicopters announces major regional expansion with acquisition of Elbow River Helicopters

VANCOUVER, BC, April 4, 2022 /CNW/ - Blackcomb Helicopters (Blackcomb) is expanding to Alberta with the purchase of Elbow River Helicopters (Elbow River), a long standing helicopter operator based at Springbank Airport near Calgary, Alberta.

"We initially reached out to Elbow River to discuss purchasing a  single helicopter but once we visited their operation at the Springbank Airport, we knew very quickly that we had complementary operational approaches and this would also be a strategic acquisition for Blackcomb," said Tim Boyle, Blackcomb's General Manager. Combing the two companies adds two additional 212 machines to the Blackcomb fleet, including a 212 HLP BLR DF Engine Machine, increasing Blackcomb's ability to serve the Company's growing utility operation customers in Alberta and in Southeast British Columbia.

All Elbow River employees were offered employment with Blackcomb Helicopters and Blackcomb are thrilled to have them onboard. The base at Springbank Airport – which includes component overhaul tooling and capabilities – will become a major focus for Blackcomb's medium helicopter fleet maintenance. The transaction closed March 31, 2022 and future operations will take place under the existing Blackcomb Helicopters Aircraft Maintenance Organization (AMO) and Aircraft Operating Certificate (OC). Torrie Chartier will be staying on as Blackcomb's Regional Manager with Derrick Shillington as Blackcomb's Chief Engineer – Bell Aircraft, and Bruce Holloway, founder, serving in an advisory role.

Elbow River Founder and Owner,  Bruce Holloway added: "This acquisition fits our belief that the aviation industry requires consolidation in order to remain competitive. I'm very proud of the company we have built with our dedicated aviation professionals and team at Elbow River. We have worked hard to stayed focused on our skills and serving our customers of Southern Alberta and Southeastern British Columbia. Blackcomb has been great to deal with and will enhance and provide additional depth with additional aircraft and personnel at the Springbank base. I am extremely pleased that our aviation professionals  who have been like family to us, have the Blackcomb Helicopters and McLean Group family to support them on their continuing journey." 

About Blackcomb Helicopters (blackcombhelicopters.com / mcleangroup.com)
Founded in Whistler, British Columbia and operating for over 30 years, Blackcomb Helicopters is the leading helicopter touring and heli-services company in the pacific northwest. 100% carbon neutral, Blackcomb provides heli-tourism, utility and civil services and operates from bases at Vancouver International Airport, in Whistler, Pemberton, Squamish, Sechelt, Lillooet, Terrace, and Springbank, Alberta. Blackcomb is a member of the McLean Group of Companies, a diversified portfolio of privately held businesses.

For further information: Torrie Chartier - 403-202-2019 / TChartier@blackcombhelicopters.com / Elbow River Helicopters, Tim Boyle - 604-786-8961 / TBoyle@blackcombhelicopters.com / General Manager, Jordy Norris - 604-698-5235 / JNorris@blackcombhelicopters.com / Director of Marketing

Raven's first flight - Pemberton's Raven Backcountry Festival kicks off Feb. 7

WITH ITS HUMBLE frontier roots and ever-evolving community, Pemberton has seen its share of shake ups over the years. Historically derided as Whistler's northernmost suburb (complete with baby strollers and a daily procession of commuter traffic), one need only dig a little deeper to see what makes this town so special.

There's no lift-accessed skiing (unless you drive south into Whistler to battle with mega resort crowds), so locals looking for fresh tracks tend to rely on their own power. That can be in the form of pure sweat on the skin track, or if you want to really get places, with a snowmobile or helicopter. Add to that a (now slightly) more affordable housing market and you can see why so many amenity migrants, professional skiers and growing Whistler families are choosing to settle there.

It was this realization that brought three Pembertonians together with the idea to celebrate the town's world-class winter recreation opportunities in the form of the Raven Backcountry Festival (RBF). Launching into its inaugural year over two evenings of indoor events and one full day of backcountry clinics, it wasn't hard to stack the schedule with Pemberton's community of shredders, artists and adventure companies.

"We're running on fumes in terms of production budget but we're also incredibly well supported," says Gus Cormack, a local bed and breakfast operator who teamed up with Blackcomb Helicopters' Andy Meeker and Broken Boundary Adventures' Tyler Kraushaur to kick start the festival.

"The Pemberton Valley Lodge has stepped up to become the presenting partner for this first year with a cash sponsorship, we really couldn't have done it without that. Tourism Pemberton gave us some seed funding to help get the marketing and promotion side of it going and we also have awesome sponsorship prizes from Arcteryx and Yeti (Coolers)."

The backbone of Pemberton's winter recreation is its access. With the Hurley to the north, the Duffey Lake Road to the east and Rutherford Creek (one of the access points to the fabled Pemberton Icefield) to the south west, backcountry access routes radiate from the Village of Pemberton like spokes on a wheel. Overseeing it all is the jagged north face of Mount Currie, its couloirs teasing ski mountaineers as they drive through town. All these zones require a laundry list of skills and equipment to gain access, which is where the festival's clinics shine.

"The clinics give people the tools to access the backcountry around Pemberton," says Cormack. "We wanted to showcase the different ways people can access the mountains around here so we thought it was important to have a big snowmobile component as well as a heli component. In Pemberton, motorized access definitely gets you through the treeline and up into the glaciated terrain that everyone likes to ski. That's why you see a sled on every second truck around here in the winter."

On Saturday, Feb 8, Broken Boundary will be leading snowmobile clinics for all abilities, Extremely Canadian will be guiding heli-accessed, ski-touring clinics and Coast Mountain Guides will be guiding splitboarding, ski-touring and crevasse-rescue clinics. Almost all clinics will have women-specific groups. While exploration and learning is at the core of the RBF, the two evening events aim to showcase Pemberton's formidable outdoor winter culture. The welcome event on Friday, Feb. 7 at Big Sky Golf Club will have six local Pemberton presenters; Blake Jorgensen, Tatum Monod, Eric Pehota, Logan Pehota, Kye Petersen and Daryl Treadway.

"It's a really stacked lineup of speakers, but we didn't really have to scratch the surface to assemble that group of influential athletes and artists in Pemberton," says Cormack. "It's really exciting when you start thinking about the festival in subsequent years. There's a really deep pool of talented, passionate people in this community. Everyone we've talked to really wants to be there to support the event."

One of the community initiatives of the RBF is giving financial support to the Lisa Korthals Memorial Bursary, which provides financial aid to women pursuing a career as a mechanized ski guide. Both Extremely Canadian and Blackcomb Helicopters are donating their staff hours and flight time to raise money for the bursary, as will RBF from any profits on ticket sales and silent auction items.

"When we talked about fundraising during the festival it was pretty unanimous when the Lisa Korthals Memorial Bursary came up," says Cormack. "It's a great way to support the guiding community and at the same time, give a nod to a legendary Pembertonian."

If you haven't explored the Pemberton backcountry yet, this is the perfect opportunity to do so. If you haven't treated yourself to a day of snowmobiling or a heli bump in a while, this is a great way to splurge with some like-minded backcountry enthusiasts. For those who yearn for the good old days of the World Ski and Snowboard Festival with a backcountry spin, the RBF brings it back to the core community without the bloat of massive TV screens and bar parties. You may never look at Pemberton with the same eyes again.

For more information on the Raven Backcountry Festival, visit www.tourismpembertonbc.com/ravenfest.

Whistler's Blackcomb Helicopters names new GM, with plans to expand

WITH THREE NEW aircraft added in recent years and a commitment to being 100-per-cent carbon neutral, Whistler's Blackcomb Helicopters (BH) is staying focused on the future. As it looks to expand its operations, the company also has a new general manager at the helm.

"We've added three Bell 212s to our fleet over the last two years. We have quite an aggressive upgrade and modernization program for those aircraft," said new general manager Tim Boyle. "We're working with Alpine Aerotech out of Kelowna and Abbotsford, and we are refurbishing those aircraft with new wiring, new paint, some advanced avionics in the form of some traffic awareness, terrain and obstacle avoidance technology that wasn't originally in these helicopters."

Founded in Whistler more than 30 years ago, BH has been spreading its wings of late, expanding operations from the Sea to Sky to include fire suppression work in Ontario and Alberta.

"Basically by adding these aircraft we're enabling ourselves to continue the present level of support in the Sea to Sky corridor, and also expand our operations to do a little more in Alberta, in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, as far as fire suppression and utility construction," Boyle said.

That being said, the company's emphasis isn't on "big," but more about levelling out business in slower periods through things like fire suppression and powerline construction.

"We are developing some partnerships and relationships outside of B.C. to do more powerline construction and maintenance. That is an area that Blackcomb is well known for experience and expertise in," Boyle said.

"So along with doing a little more firefighting outside of B.C., we also would like to be able to take the highs and lows out and do a little more powerline construction when there aren't projects going on in B.C."

In 2018, BH began purchasing carbon offsets for its tourist flights, and in 2019 became 100-per-cent carbon neutral.

"This is not just fuel for flying the helicopters—that is the largest portion—but our truck fuel, our heat for our buildings, and our complete travel of all of our employees is calculated, and we are purchasing offsets with a company that is protecting existing forest on Quadra Island," Boyle said.

"It's a huge commitment for our company, and it is one that we stand behind for the long haul, but we feel that it's the right thing to do. It's not something to be taken lightly."

While the cost to offset is "substantial," Boyle said he thinks it will pay off.

"I have to say, I didn't expect a return at the level of recognition for what we're doing. I think a lot of people respect it," he said, adding that BH has also recently started working with another "major resort" in the province to share what it has learned about offsets.

"They've made it a priority as well, and we have shared that information, fully ... We're not using it as a competitive advantage," he said.

While flights for emergency services or firefighting are easily justified, heli-skiing is not essential, Boyle said.

"But it's sure enjoyable for many, so we better be responsible about the fuel we're burning, and the environment we're working in," he said.

"The owners of this company believe they have a responsibility to the community and to the environment, and they're serious about it, so they're also looking to see other operations follow in the same [footsteps]. It's better for the industry, it's just a good thing."

At its Jan. 21 meeting, Whistler council supported a proposed survey plan for the Whistler Heliport that would allow BH to consolidate two of its existing leases.

The new survey plan consolidates two existing, side-by-side blocks into one, allowing for BH to build a large hangar building on the new block.

The building will allow the operator to store helicopters indoors, extend the service life of equipment and improve working conditions, according to a report to council.

BH says it will also explore a fire suppression system that could benefit all heliport users as part of the capital improvement.

The heliport is on Crown land that is leased by the RMOW, which in turn is leased to the Whistler Heliport Society, and further subleased to individual helicopter operators.

World's First 100% Carbon Neutral Full Service Helicopter Operator

As of Jan. 1, 2019 Blackcomb Helicopters became the first full-service helicopter operator in the world to offset 100 per cent of its carbon footprint. Initiating the transition in 2018 by first offsetting its growing tourism program, this operator of 22 aircraft and six base locations has now offset the entirety of the business including employee commutes, facility emissions, waste, and fuel-burn.

Blackcomb Helicopters (BH), a McLean Group company, is a civil and utility services provider in southwestern British Columbia, and nationwide as required. BH is known for its safety record and operational expertise in support of local search and rescue organizations, wildfire suppression agencies, medical evacuations, avalanche control, the construction and maintenance of utility infrastructure such as hydro-electric power, and resource development such as forestry and mining.  These helicopters are an essential mountain access tool for the rugged terrain of Western Canada.

“In my 40 years in the industry, burning jet fuel has been a constant and there are really no near-term alternatives to gas turbines for the missions expected of us,” commented John Morris, general manager and director. “We could not have taken this step without the strong support of our customers, staff, and stakeholders who recognize the value in confronting carbon emissions proactively and we are grateful for their support.”

Through a significant contribution to a forest conservation project on Quadra Island, as well as local green tech and travel initiatives, BH is offsetting its carbon footprint through the sequestration of greenhouse gases by preserving forests, encouraging greener travel for commuters, and incorporating energy savings and lower emissions in new building design.

“Building on our experience with Vancouver Film Studios becoming the first carbon neutral film studio in Canada almost 12 years ago, we knew that a carbon reduction and offsetting program was consistent with Blackcomb’s culture,” said Jason McLean, CEO of McLean Group. “Climate change is one of the defining challenges of our time and we can’t simply leave it to regulators to fix things for us.  Businesses also need to adapt and help lead the transition to a lower carbon economy.”

BH began these efforts with its tourism business in 2018 to test the program and meet customer demand for carbon offsetting with “elective” travel. In order to maintain a strong year-round business, BH also provides consumer-focused tourism through partnerships with heli-skiing and ski touring operations in the winter and sightseeing tours and guided adventures in the summer.  BH is also the exclusive helicopter provider for Whistler-Blackcomb Resort, including Whistler Heliskiing, providing medevac, heliskiing, construction, and mountain operations assistance. With significant land tenure in the Sea-to-Sky region and a long track record of responsible operations in the back country, the implementation of a carbon neutral strategy was well received and prompted the expansion to company wide operations in 2019.

Opening Day Fresh Tracks with Blackcomb Helicopters

On Opening Day, Blackcomb Helicopters made the morning extra special for the most eager skiers/boarders in the lift line. The four lucky campers who slept in the lift line through an especially cold night in hopes to be on the first gondola on Opening Day were surprised with a helicopter tour through Whistler’s Coast Mountain range before being dropped off at the Roundhouse Lodge on top of Whistler.

Congratulations to Wyat, Dash, Caleb and Alex.

Click here to watch the morning unfold.

Advanced heli-rescuers give urgent care to remote workers in Sea-to-Sky region

TEAAM has performed 3 air missions and 46 ground missions since its inception last year.

Miles Randell and his team of helicopter-flying medics haven't been serving B.C.'s Sea-to-Sky region for very long — but they've already made a lifelong difference to a forest worker who was struck by an 18-metre fir tree and catapulted down a hill.

"It basically shattered his spine and a number of ribs and gave him a small collapsed lung," Randell told CBC News. "So he was in fairly critical condition."

The worker was in a remote site outside of Squamish, an area where air ambulance staff couldn't reach. And it would have taken ground paramedics hours to get there via the rough bumpy road.

"He would have had about an eight-hour trip from the job site to the local hospital," said Randell. "Then it would have been a couple of more hours before he was able to make it to a trauma centre and receive the surgery he needed."

• Squamish paramedics want to add to B.C.'s air ambulance toolbox

But Randall and the rest of his specially trained crew, known as a Technical Evacuation Advanced Aero Medical (TEAAM), were called to the site within minutes. They provided him advanced life support on scene.

The worker was transported to Vancouver General Hospital in less than two hours. Randell says the physicians told him the swift extraction saved the patient from paralysis.

Specialized service

TEAAM is a non-profit society that uses hoists to reach patients in remote settings, like work camps, to extract them and bring them to hospital faster than road vehicles or traditional air evacuation.

Workers are medically trained to provide advanced medical care, coming from a variety of different backgrounds, including emergency physicians, nurses, and search and rescue workers.

"We've got some of the most experienced mountain rescue guides in Canada," said Randall, who founded the society about two years ago. He says the goal of the program is to fill a big medical service gap for remote workers.

The issue was identified in a 2017 report from the B.C. Forest Safety Ombudsman, which says B.C. Ambulance Service (BCAS) employees aren't trained for extraction.

Instead, WorksafeBC regulations require employers have emergency transportation plans in case employees get injured. But some of those plans can be far from efficient.

In 2014, a logger in Haida Gwaii had his leg crushed by a fallen tree. It took 11 hours to get him appropriate medical care — a trip that included two boats and a ride in a mechanic's vehicle down a bumpy logging road.

By the time he reached Vancouver, part of his leg had to be amputated. The report suggests swifter medical service could have prevented it.

Finding finances

TEAAM is currently financed by a patronage program. Employers who want to utilize the service pay an annual fee per employee, which covers the emergency crew's operational costs.

"The long-term plan is to be successful enough through our patronage program that we find enough patrons that we build a rescue fund that covers the cost of rescues," Randell said, adding that they're hoping to add hubs in different regions.

Just two weeks ago, the group hoisted a tree planter out of a worksite after a 159-kilogram boulder rolled over his leg outside of Squamish.

WATCH: TEAAM crews hoist injured tree planter

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=61&v=z-d-uJdr5qg

"The TEAAM model should be the standard of care for the industry — especially the tree-planting industry," said John Betts, executive director of the Western Forestry Contractors Association (WFCA).

The WFCA and the Truck Loggers Association are lobbying the province and WorksafeBC for additional support for the TEAAM program.

The group argues that the service can save millions of dollars in both workers' compensation and health-care costs.

"This is not replacing the ambulance service. This is to do technical rescue, retrieval, extrication, and emergency medicine for people who have been injured on remote sites that are outside the timely reach of the ambulance," added Betts.

Jon Hernandez · CBC News · Posted: Jul 03, 2019 5:00 AM PT

Greater Vancouver Board of Trade Luncheon with Vail Resorts CEO Robert Katz

Blackcomb Helicopters was honoured to sponsor a luncheon with Vail Resorts and their CEO Robert Katz. John Morris, General Manager of Blackcomb Helicopters, was asked to give the opening speech. 

“We have been providing mountain operations, tourism, rescue and heliskiing support to Whistler Blackcomb since 1989, a time when the mountains were still arch rivals and competing for ticket sales.”

Morris goes on to describe the importance of our partnership with Whistler Blackcomb, “Our relationship with Whistler Blackcomb and Vail is a true partnership.  We often find ourselves collectively working in challenging environments and our respective crews need to be on the same page.  If we have a bad day out there working in the mountains, the experience is equally shared by both parties and we work as a team to resolve our problems and get the job done safely and efficiently.” 

“Vail Resorts has embraced the progressive policies around the environment and sustainability that have been developed and adopted by Whistler Blackcomb.  In an effort to support these initiatives we are doing our part.  Since January 2018, all flying done by Blackcomb Helicopters for Whistler Blackcomb has been conducted as a carbon neutral operation.  To accomplish this, we presently utilize carbon offsets in support of a reforestation project on Quadra Island near Campbell River in an attempt to keep these initiatives as local as we possibly can.”

For more information of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade and the event, visit https://www.boardoftrade.com/events/individual-events/1388-6324.

The Walter Zebrowski Scholarship Fund

In September 2018, Blackcomb Helicopters donated $5,000 to the Walter Zebrowski Scholarship Fund. Walter used Blackcomb Helicopters’ services frequently in maintaining the television receiving station on Sproatt Mountain.

The Scholarship Fund began in 1997 after Walter died and has been administered by the Rotary Club through the Community Foundation of Whistler. Each year a member of the graduating class at Whistler High School who demonstrates community involvement, academic excellence and leadership is awarded a $1,000 scholarship. To date there are have 21 recipients.

His daughter, Ewa describes her visiting her father’s work on top of Sproatt -

“In 1996 after the memorial service for my father took place in Whistler, my husband and two sons, then 13 and 11, flew on the top of Sproatt Mountain to scatter his ashes according to his wishes. It was the first time we had ever been on Sproatt.”

“We landed on a piece of plywood and witnessed the beauty, 360 degrees! I was moved to see the structures my father had built to house the TV receiving system. Structures that looked like sculptures left in nature by an artist. I photographed what I saw. Beautiful. I understood his joy and adventure.”

Below is a beautiful remembrance by Ewa, contributed by The Rotary Club.

Wladyslaw Zebrowski was a man with a vision.  In the mid-60s he fell in love with Whistler Mountain.

Having immigrated to Canada in 1948 after the end of World War II, Captain Zebrowski found himself the owner of a chicken farm, a far cry from an army career!  He had had an illustrious war career as a soldier in the Polish Army under British Command and had visited many place with exotic-sounding names like Dzalalabad, Arkangelsk, Uzbeckstan, Monte Cassino.  He had been awarded numerous medals for bravery, having been a prisoner of war on a few occasions.  He was idealistic, hard-working and dedicated.  He had no interest in returning to a Poland under communist rule and so decided to come to Canada in search of freedom and a new life.  He always remained proud of is Polish roots and traditions.

In the mid-60s, Walter, as he was known to his English friends, decided to move to Whistler.  Whistler barely existed.  There was no highway, no electricity, no running water, no sewage system.  There was only this big beautiful mountain waiting to be discovered!

Walter had always loved the mountains.  Having had enough of city life, he decided to leave Vancouver.   He found the idea of settling in this virgin territory exciting.  He wanted to be a pioneer, to experience the beauty of the Canadian wilderness.  As a child I remember him trying desperately to find a partner to join him in the adventure of developing the crown land that he had purchased in the valley.  There were no takers.  So alone he accepted the challenge.

He lived at Whistler for 30 years.  During that period he founded Garibaldi Whistler Development Company Limited, developed his land, built condominiums and homes with Arthur Erickson, created a park with a trout-filled lake, founded the Whistler Water Works, the Whistler Volunteer Fire Department, was a charter member of the Whistler Rotary Club, was co-founder of the Chamber of Commerce, and even succeed in bringing television to the valley, against all odds and much criticism.  Today, the television receiver still stands on Sproat Mountain bringing television to people at Whistler, thanks to him.

He became the community watchdog, often protesting vociferously when he did not agree with Municipal or Provincial politics.  He was respected and appreciated for his determination and energy.  Walter knew how to get things done.

Walter saw Whistler evolve from a quiet ski hill to a world-class ski resort.  He himself often remarked that the changes were unbelievable!  He was proud of Whistler.

In later years I often heard him speak about how important he felt it was to give back to one’s community.  For him, Whistler had represented a dream.  He liked the idea of belonging and contributing to a new, vital and growing community.  He liked the idea of making a difference.  He felt he was part of Whistler’s success, of Whistler’s history.

On June 26, 1996, Whistler Mountain lost its oldest citizen and I lost my dear father.

Article contributed by Ewa Zebrowski Walter's Daughter.

Minto & Blackcomb Helicopters

As a proud community member of the Bridge River Valley, Blackcomb Helicopters has been supporting the Minto Communications Society since its inception over 10 years ago.  We are delighted to have helped not only with the construction of the original mountaintop repeater sites, but also with their ongoing maintenance.  Minto provides a critical service to the community and we are delighted to play a role in their success.

http://www.mintocomm.ca/

About Minto:

Minto Communications Society is a non-profit, community owned & operated organization providing high quality communication services to the people of the Upper Bridge River Valley since 2008.

The core values of MCS are economic, social development & education. MCS believes high speed internet service & the related services will significantly enhance the quality of life in this region by contributing to educational opportunities for residents & economic development businesses opportunities throughout the entire area.

B.C. campaign finishes with a flourish

The Great Trail in British Columbia boasts natural sea shores, salmon-bearing streams, marshland, forests, meadows, mountains and valleys. Much effort has gone into Trail development, but by this summer, it was only 95 per cent connected.

That’s when Valerie Pringle, co-chair of the Trans Canada Trail Foundation, approached a well-known Vancouver philanthropist.

David McLean, founder of The McLean Group, assumed that Pringle’s visit would be courteous, but short. Yet soon he became inspired. “Valerie is so full of love for our country and her enthusiasm is infectious,” says McLean, who offered to raise the remaining funds needed.

McLean committed 20 per cent from his family foundation. “I am a great believer that if you raise money for something, you have to first look into the mirror and make a personal commitment,” he says. McLean’s friends Gordon Diamond and John Tognetti (in association  with his parents Giancarlo and Odette Tognetti) each matched his gift. Other donations followed from Peter Armstrong, Michael Audain and Robert Lee among others, and the required funds were raised.

“The B.C. campaign was completed in time for the province’s 100 per cent connection celebration, a milestone in the national connection plan to mark Canada’s 150th birthday,” says McLean. “The Great Trail fosters appreciation of the natural bounty in B.C. and beyond,” he says. “The aspiration of connecting a trail that unites Canada is a very fitting endeavour.”

These philanthropists join other major B.C. supporters of the Trail, among them Teck Resources Ltd., the Ross Beaty family, Robert A. Quartermain, The Annual Foundation (in honour of Loretta and Ted Rogers), TELUS, The Greyross Foundation (held at Vancouver Foundation), TimberWest, David Aisenstat, Ross Mitchell, Jim and Sandi Treliving, Columbia Basin Trust, HSBC Bank Canada, Vancity and Canfor.