The University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) and Chinook Helicopters Limited (Chinook) are joining forces and collaborating on the development of a helicopter pilot training stream within the UFV Aviation Diploma program.

Based in Abbotsford BC, Chinook is Canada’s premier helicopter training organization with a 25% market share of all helicopter training in Canada.

UFV currently trains fixed wing pilots through the Aviation Diploma program and looks forward to exploring this expansion of training options for students pursuing a career in rotary wing aviation.

“UFV is thrilled to be partnering with Chinook Helicopters – the Canadian leader of training in this sector,” said Tracy Ryder Glass, dean of professional studies at UFV. “This is a really great fit and the partnership will look at offering students one more pathway to achieving their goals in aviation and how we can help provide the aviation industry with superbly trained helicopter pilots.”

The agreement between UFV and Chinook will examine training processes that ensure Transport Canada standards are met by students obtaining their helicopter pilot’s license. The partnership will also explore the demand for newly licensed helicopter pilots in the aviation industry.

“Chinook Helicopters is very pleased to join with UFV, our very own Abbotsford university, and make helicopter training an option for the Aviation Diploma program,” said Cathy Press, President of Chinook Helicopters.

“During our initial talks about establishing this option, we have had tremendous encouragement from the management of the Abbotsford airport, the university and others who view this as one more step towards establishing Abbotsford as a centre for Aviation Excellence.”

Established in 1982, Chinook provides a full spectrum of basic and specialized advanced flight and ground training to the global community. The company is privately owned and operates from a large modern facility at the Abbotsford Airport.

Partnering with Coastal Pacific Aviation, UFV offers a Bachelor of Business Administration (Aviation) degree which includes a private and commercial pilot license certification and specialization in heavy jet transport operations, professional flight instruction, and airport operations. An Aviation option is also available though a Bachelor of General Studies. UFV also offers the Aircraft Structures Technician training program based at the Abbotsford International Airport.

For further information and media availability please contact Dave Pinton, UFV Director of Communications at dave.pinton@ufv.ca or 778.808.5661 or Cathy Press at cp@chinookhelicopters.com.