General career and industry
information
Helicopters in Canada are normally
utilized for the transportation of men and equipment in Northern or
remote areas. Therefore, a prospective helicopter pilot should
consider that this means being prepared to spend extended periods of
time away from home, often working out of bush camps.
The majority of commercial companies hire their personnel on either
a full-time, or contract basis. The peak period for commercial
helicopter operations is during the summer months. It has been our
experience that the peak training periods tend to be in the fall and
spring.
On graduation, commercial helicopter pilots may expect to earn
approximately $3,500.00 per month. As their experience grows,
salaries will increase accordingly. After about 2 years, they should
be able to earn approximately $35,000.00 to $90,000.00 annually.
With additional or specialized skills, it is possible to earn annual
salaries in excess of $100,000.00. Since the Canadian Licence is well
recognized by ICAO countries around the world, excellent
opportunities also exist overseas for experienced Canadian Licensed
pilots.
There are no known facilities in Canada that offer pilot training to
ab initio students in
exchange for future services, --- other than the Canadian Armed
Services.
Heli-College Canada cannot guarantee a student employment on
completion of training. However, we will do our utmost to assist you
in obtaining a position. In the past, we have been able to place
many of our graduates with local operators. Don't be misled by a
school who makes it sound easy ... Finding your first job in this
industry is always a challenge. But please remember, every pilot out
flying commercially today, has gone through this process
successfully. You are no different than they were, when they started
in the industry. We suggest that you carefully read through the
articles posted in this web site regarding training and the current
job market. Should any openings occur in our company for which you
are qualified, our own graduates are always considered on a priority
basis.