Blackcomb Helicopters is celebrating its 35th year of operation. For over three decades it has proudly served as a leader in aviation across Western Canada, earning a reputation for expertise and dedication.

Established in 1989 in the heart of Whistler, British Columbia, Blackcomb was founded by Steve and Michelle Flynn, initially operating a single Bell 206 stationed in the Rainbow Mountain area. The company initially offered a range of services from tourism adventures to critical support in wildfires, and SAR missions.

Fast forward to 2006, a pivotal year when Blackcomb was acquired by MCM Aviation, a joint venture between the McLean Group and Omega Aviation. Under the leadership of John Morris, Jason McLean and Sacha McLean, Blackcomb Helicopters has experienced remarkable growth while maintaining its commitment to community and regional support.

“The decision to acquire Blackcomb Helicopters was inspired by my brother Sacha, who has always been a passionate aviation enthusiast. And when John Morris came into the picture, our aviation trajectory was truly set and we haven’t looked back,” says Jason McLean, chief executive officer of McLean Group.

Today, Blackcomb Helicopters has specialised services including hydro operations, mining support, emergency services, firefighting, advanced training, tourism adventures and more, all guided by a commitment to people and safety.

“Our enduring motivation in the aviation business stems from a dedication to our customers and employees. Supporting our community is incredibly fulfilling, as is working with passionate professionals who care a great deal about their work and the people it serves,” he adds.

Blackcomb now operates a fleet of 20 helicopters across seven hangars in Whistler, Pemberton, Squamish, Lillooet, Calgary, Terrace and, the newest addition, Boundary Bay.

It has recently unveiled a modern hangar at Boundary Bay airport in Delta, BC. This expansion not only establishes a new base but also enhances advanced training facilities.

“Our original base at Vancouver International airport was unnecessary for our operations. Boundary Bay offers exceptional facilities and convenient access for our teams, who were originally travelling long distances between the Lower Mainland and Pemberton,” says Sacha McLean, chair of McLean Group. “Our commitment to excellence and community support drives everything we do.”

Blackcomb’s adventure tourism divisions, AlpX Expeditions and Tyax Adventures, continue to thrive by offering experiences in Whistler, British Columbia and the South Chilcotin. With this expansion into Boundary Bay, Blackcomb anticipates substantial growth.

“I learned to fly helicopters in Boundary Bay in 1996, just 100 feet from our new hangar. Establishing a base here feels like returning home,” Sacha adds.

Since 2019, Blackcomb Helicopters has achieved 100 per cent carbon offset status.