Established in 1989 in Whistler, British Columbia, Blackcomb Helicopters has a rich history deeply intertwined with its local community. The McLean family, who have been Whistler residents since 1967, and John Morris, a former base manager for Okanagan Helicopters in Whistler, are foundational figures in the company’s story. From the leadership to the newest hires, everyone at Blackcomb Helicopters shares a profound love for the rugged landscapes of BC’s Coast Mountains—a passion that has become a defining element of the company’s aviation DNA. Although the company has grown to include around 20 helicopters and 60 aviation professionals across six main bases, its core values and connection to the local terrain remain steadfast.
A Spectrum of Expertise
Blackcomb Helicopters is a cohesive team of aviation specialists, offering a diverse range of services from remote mountain access to specialized aviation solutions. While the company’s Sea-to-Sky bases primarily focus on tourism, search-and-rescue, heli-skiing, and heli-biking, they also extend their expertise to sectors like utility, mining, film, and firefighting when their specialized skills can add significant value. The company’s commitment to exceptional service, particularly when specialized skills and high-quality equipment are required, has helped it build a strong portfolio of discerning clients.
Customized Solutions for Diverse Needs
Blackcomb Helicopters recognizes that each client has unique requirements, adding a layer of complexity to their operations. The pilots at Blackcomb are equipped with specialized skills and extensive experience to navigate these complexities. The company’s maintenance and safety protocols are meticulously designed to support a high level of technical expertise and complex operational capabilities. Over half of the company’s projects require some form of formal pre-qualification, such as custom safety audits. The company is also heavily invested in specialized work methods and cutting-edge technology, ranging from hydro operations to advanced communication systems.
Synergies with the McLean Group
Being a part of the McLean Group offers Blackcomb Helicopters the advantage of collective expertise in areas like finance, HR, legal matters, and communications. The company shares common clients with other entities within the McLean Group, such as Vancouver Film Studios and Signal Systems. Additionally, Blackcomb Helicopters places a high priority on community engagement and philanthropy, a value shared across the McLean Group. Through the Blackcomb Helicopters Employee Endowment, the company has donated over $1 million to local charities in the past five years. Drawing from the experience of making Vancouver Film Studios carbon-neutral, similar sustainability practices have been applied to Blackcomb Helicopters’ tourism operations.
A Focus on People
The quality of the team at Blackcomb Helicopters is central to the company’s success. Significant investments are made in recruitment and training, with the aim of being the go-to employer for aviation professionals. While Blackcomb may not be the starting point for every career in the field, it aspires to be the ultimate destination. This aspiration contributes to a positive company culture that not only delivers proficient helicopter services but also creates unforgettable experiences for its clients.
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