Bristow Group is investing in the next generation of offshore helicopter pilots with its latest sponsored UK cadet programme in partnership with Helicentre Aviation. The programme is designed to attract, train and retain the professional pilots of the future.

Applications are now open for the programme, which will see four cadets chosen through a rigorous joint selection process. Successful applicant training, from ab initio to commercial pilot on an Integrated CPL(H) course, ultimately obtaining a multi-engine instrument rating, will be fully funded by Bristow.

Established in 2018, the cadet programme provides a pathway to enable cadets to graduate and transition from training straight into employment with Bristow, where they will gain type ratings and begin as first officers with the world's largest helicopter operator. Bristow is the only North Sea helicopter operator in the UK that continues to sponsor the future helicopter pilot workforce through its sponsored programme.

Helicentre and Bristow continue to partner through career events, cadet sponsorships and joint scholarship initiatives.

UK oil and gas director Matt Rhodes says: “Bristow has a long history of training our own pilots, and many of these cadets have progressed through the business to become management and senior training staff in the company today. We recognise the significant benefits of investing in new talent, and this sponsorship allows many who could not traditionally afford to self-fund training, an opportunity to be trained to the highest standards. We have worked in close partnership with Helicentre for many years and we share the same philosophies when it comes to ensuring tomorrow's pilots are offered the very best, operator-focused training. I look forward to seeing the high quality of applicants and watching them progress to fully qualified commercial helicopter pilots.”

During training, the cadets will also have access to Bristow's flight simulator hall at Dyce, Aberdeen. The purpose-built centre is the only facility of its kind in the UK and hosts three full-size helicopter simulators which use advanced, motion-compensation technology, combined with realistic visuals to replicate the experience of flying Leonardo AW189, Sikorsky S-92 and S-76 aircraft.

Applications for the Bristow cadet programme remain open throughout June 2021, with selection expected to be confirmed in August, ahead of training commencing in September at Helicentre Aviation's training hub at Leicester airport.