The first class of graduates from Bond Helicopter's Aberdeen-based training programme for helicopter engineers has graduated with flying colours. The company established the CAA-approved training scheme for licensed engineers in December and the first five students have now graduated. Each is qualified to sign off engineering work on the Sikorsky S-92.

“Our training and examination capability really underlines our commitment to the future,” says technical training instructor Bob Findlay. “We can offer specialist training courses to helicopter engineers, giving them the skills and qualifications to carry out and sign-off technical work on the S-92 aircraft. We are already planning to expand our capabilities and expect to be able to offer courses on other aircraft after the summer.”

The seven-week course involves students splitting their time between the classroom and working on aircraft in the Aberdeen facility under trainer supervision.

Mark Thain, who received his certificate from MD Michelle Handforth, comments: “It is fantastic that Bond is able to offer this course to staff. Having the extra qualification gives me the chance to really progress my career with Bond. It's a great investment in me and in our industry and will really help us provide the safe, mission-critical services our customers demand.”

Although the first graduates are all Bond staff, the training scheme is open to outside applicants too. “It's a qualification that is recognised globally across the industry,” adds Findlay.

“We are now in a position to advance our own staff's skills and capabilities in-house, under the close scrutiny of the CAA, but we can also provide the same course to other applicants. Well-qualified engineers are absolutely critical to the continued success and safe operations of our industry and it's great that we can play a role in securing its future.”