Great Slave Helicopters

Imagine soaring through the beautiful Canadian skies, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes below. Now, picture yourself doing so in the comfort and safety of Great Slave Helicopters, one of the leading airlines in Canada. With a reputation for excellence and over 30 years of experience in the industry, Great Slave Helicopters is dedicated to providing exceptional service and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re embarking on a thrilling adventure or simply looking for a unique way to explore the stunning Canadian wilderness, Great Slave Helicopters is your ultimate ticket to an extraordinary journey.

History of Great Slave Helicopters

Founding and early years

Great Slave Helicopters was founded in 1984 by Marty McBride and Dan Mills in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada. Recognizing the need for reliable and efficient helicopter services in remote areas, they set out to establish a company that would meet the unique transportation needs of the region. With their collective experience in aviation and passion for providing exceptional service, they built Great Slave Helicopters from the ground up.

Key milestones

Over the years, Great Slave Helicopters has achieved several significant milestones. In 1992, the company acquired Horizon Helicopters, expanding its fleet and operational capacity. This strategic move positioned Great Slave Helicopters as a major player in the industry, enabling them to provide a broader range of services to their clients.

In 2006, the company further solidified its position by acquiring 49 percent of Keewatin Air, a respected fixed-wing charter operator based in Canada’s northern regions. This partnership allowed Great Slave Helicopters to enhance its service offerings, seamlessly integrating fixed-wing aircraft into their operations to cater to a wider range of customer needs.

Recent developments

In recent years, Great Slave Helicopters has continued to innovate and evolve, staying at the forefront of the helicopter services industry. They have made significant investments in their fleet, acquiring state-of-the-art helicopters equipped with the latest technology to ensure safety, efficiency, and customer comfort.

Great Slave Helicopters has also expanded its operations beyond Canada, establishing a strong presence in international markets. Their commitment to excellence and their ability to adapt to changing customer demands have positioned them as a leader in the global helicopter services industry.

Fleet Information

Types of aircraft

Great Slave Helicopters boasts an impressive fleet of helicopters renowned for their performance and reliability. Their fleet includes various models from leading manufacturers such as Airbus, Bell, and Leonardo. Each aircraft is meticulously maintained and equipped with advanced avionics, ensuring the highest levels of safety and operational efficiency.

From versatile light helicopters like the Bell 206 series to larger multi-engine helicopters like the Airbus H130 and Leonardo AW139, Great Slave Helicopters offers a diverse range of aircraft to suit various mission requirements. The company’s commitment to investing in modern and versatile helicopters ensures that they can provide tailored solutions to their customers’ needs.

Maintenance and safety features

Great Slave Helicopters places safety as its top priority, and this commitment is reflected in its rigorous maintenance procedures and safety protocols. The company adheres to strict maintenance schedules and has a team of highly trained technicians who perform regular inspections and maintenance activities.

In addition to regular maintenance, Great Slave Helicopters incorporates cutting-edge safety features into its aircraft. These features include advanced collision avoidance systems, state-of-the-art weather radar, and state-of-the-art autopilot systems. These technological advancements enhance the safety of every flight, providing peace of mind to both the crew and passengers.

Fleet capacity

Great Slave Helicopters boasts an extensive fleet that caters to a wide range of operations and missions. With a fleet capacity that can accommodate both small-scale and large-scale projects, the company has the capability to transport personnel, cargo, and equipment to even the most remote and challenging locations.

Whether it’s conducting aerial surveys, supporting mining and exploration activities, or providing emergency medical services, Great Slave Helicopters has the fleet capacity to handle diverse mission requirements. Their ability to scale their operations to meet the needs of their customers sets them apart as a reliable and flexible helicopter services provider.

Services Offered by Great Slave Helicopters

Transport services

Great Slave Helicopters specializes in providing efficient and reliable transport services across a wide range of industries. Whether it’s transporting crew members to offshore oil rigs, providing logistical support to mining operations, or conducting aerial surveys for environmental studies, the company’s fleet of helicopters is equipped to handle various transportation needs.

The company’s experienced pilots and support staff work closely with their clients to develop customized transportation solutions that meet their specific requirements. Great Slave Helicopters’ commitment to safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction ensures that their transport services are second to none.

Special missions and operations

Great Slave Helicopters has extensive experience in conducting special missions and operations that demand precision, skill, and professionalism. From firefighting and search and rescue operations to wildlife management and filming, the company has the expertise and resources to handle diverse and challenging missions.

With their advanced fleet and highly trained personnel, Great Slave Helicopters can swiftly respond to emergencies and provide critical support in high-pressure situations. Their commitment to excellence and attention to detail set them apart as a trusted partner for special missions and operations.

Customized travel solutions

Great Slave Helicopters also offers customized travel solutions for clients seeking a unique and unforgettable aerial experience. Whether it’s a scenic tour over breathtaking landscapes or a personalized charter for a special occasion, the company’s team of experts can create tailor-made itineraries that cater to individual preferences.

From luxury VIP trips to remote destinations to aerial photography expeditions, Great Slave Helicopters goes above and beyond to ensure that their clients’ travel experiences are memorable and exceptional. Their dedication to providing personalized and customized travel solutions sets them apart as a leader in the helicopter tourism industry.

Operational Bases and Locations

Main headquarters

Great Slave Helicopters’ main headquarters is located in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada. Situated in the heart of the flying community in Canada’s North, the headquarters serve as the central hub for the company’s operations and administrative functions. With modern facilities and a highly skilled team, the headquarters enable Great Slave Helicopters to efficiently coordinate its services across its various operational bases and locations.

Regional offices and bases

In addition to its main headquarters, Great Slave Helicopters operates regional offices and bases strategically located to serve different markets and regions. These bases are situated in key locations across Canada, including Edmonton, Alberta, and Timmins, Ontario, allowing the company to provide localized service and support to its clients.

Each regional base is equipped with its own maintenance facilities, ensuring that helicopters are regularly serviced and inspected to maintain the highest levels of safety and operational efficiency. The regional bases also house highly trained pilots and support staff who are familiar with the unique requirements and challenges of their respective regions.

International operations

Great Slave Helicopters has expanded its presence beyond Canada, establishing international operations to cater to global demand for its services. With operational bases located in select international locations, the company is able to provide its expertise and high-quality services to clients around the world.

International operations allow Great Slave Helicopters to participate in diverse projects and collaborate with global partners. Whether it’s supporting humanitarian missions in remote areas or providing transportation solutions to international energy companies, the company’s international operations demonstrate its commitment to being a global leader in the helicopter services industry.

Flight Routes and Destinations

Major domestic routes

Great Slave Helicopters operates a comprehensive network of domestic flight routes across Canada. These routes connect major cities and remote communities, facilitating transportation and logistical support for various industries such as mining, oil and gas, and tourism.

From providing transport services to resource exploration camps in Northern Canada to supporting remote communities with essential supplies, Great Slave Helicopters’ domestic routes play a vital role in connecting people and resources in some of the most challenging regions of the country.

International destinations

In addition to its domestic operations, Great Slave Helicopters serves a diverse range of international destinations. Leveraging its strategic partnerships and extensive fleet, the company provides transportation and support services to clients in countries around the globe.

From conducting seismic surveys in Latin America to facilitating emergency medical evacuations in Africa, Great Slave Helicopters’ international destinations showcase its ability to operate seamlessly in different regions and cultural contexts.

Popular chartered flights

Great Slave Helicopters offers chartered flight options for clients seeking exclusive and convenient travel experiences. Whether it’s flying to remote fishing lodges, accessing inaccessible wilderness areas, or attending corporate events in style, the company’s chartered flights provide flexibility and comfort for discerning travelers.

By offering tailored itineraries and personalized service, Great Slave Helicopters ensures that every chartered flight is a memorable and convenient experience. From start to finish, the company’s attentive staff takes care of every detail, ensuring that clients’ travel needs are met with the highest level of professionalism.

Customer Service

Booking process

Great Slave Helicopters’ booking process is designed to be seamless and user-friendly, providing customers with a hassle-free experience from the moment they decide to book a flight. Their online platform allows customers to easily access available flights, select routes, and choose additional services or amenities.

For more complex requirements or personalized travel solutions, Great Slave Helicopters provides dedicated customer service agents who can assist customers in finding the most suitable options. Whether booking through the online platform or with the support of customer service agents, the company ensures that the booking process is smooth and efficient.

Customer support and feedback

Great Slave Helicopters understands the importance of maintaining excellent customer support throughout the entire journey. Their dedicated customer support team is available to assist customers with any inquiries, concerns, or special requests.

The company also values customer feedback and actively seeks input to continuously improve their services. From post-flight surveys to online feedback forms, Great Slave Helicopters provides customers with various avenues to share their experiences and suggestions. This commitment to customer engagement and satisfaction sets the company apart as a customer-centric organization.

Policy for complaints and refunds

Great Slave Helicopters has a comprehensive policy in place to address customer complaints and handle refund requests. The company takes all customer concerns seriously and strives to address them promptly and effectively.

In the event of flight cancellations or delays due to unforeseen circumstances, Great Slave Helicopters provides clear guidelines on refund eligibility and procedures. Their transparent and customer-friendly policies demonstrate their commitment to fairness and ensuring customer satisfaction, even in challenging situations.

Safety Record and Regulations Compliance

Safety regulations compliance

Great Slave Helicopters maintains a strong focus on complying with all safety regulations and industry standards. The company adheres to rigorous maintenance schedules, conducts regular inspections, and invests in advanced safety features for its aircraft.

Great Slave Helicopters also has a robust safety management system in place, which includes ongoing training for pilots and support staff. This commitment to safety regulations compliance ensures that the company’s operations meet the highest standards of safety and professionalism.

Notable accidents or incidents

While Great Slave Helicopters has an excellent safety record, like any aviation operator, it has had some notable accidents or incidents throughout its history. However, the company’s commitment to continuous improvement and safety measures has allowed it to learn from these incidents and implement measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Following each incident, Great Slave Helicopters conducts thorough investigations to determine the root cause and takes corrective actions to prevent reoccurrence. The company’s transparent approach to addressing accidents or incidents further demonstrates its commitment to maintaining the safety of its operations.

Awards and recognitions for safety

Great Slave Helicopters’ efforts in maintaining a high level of safety have been recognized by various industry organizations and regulatory authorities. The company has received several awards for its commitment to safety, including the Transport Canada Aviation Safety Award.

These accolades are a testament to Great Slave Helicopters’ proactive approach to safety, its dedication to meeting industry standards, and its ongoing efforts to improve safety practices and procedures.

Economic Impact and Contributions

Impact on local economies

Great Slave Helicopters has a significant impact on the local economies in the regions where it operates. The company’s operations create employment opportunities for local residents, both directly and indirectly. Employment in areas such as maintenance, operations, and administration provides livelihoods to individuals and contributes to the stability and growth of local communities.

Great Slave Helicopters also supports local businesses by sourcing supplies and services from the regions where it operates. This stimulates economic activity and helps to further develop local economies.

Contribution to Canadian aviation industry

As a prominent player in the Canadian aviation industry, Great Slave Helicopters contributes to the growth and development of the sector. The company is actively involved in industry associations and collaborates with other aviation companies to address common challenges and promote best practices.

Great Slave Helicopters’ investments in state-of-the-art aircraft and technology also contribute to the advancement of the Canadian aviation industry. By adopting innovative solutions and pushing the boundaries of operational efficiency, the company helps drive progress and sets new standards for the industry as a whole.

Community outreach programs and sponsorships

Great Slave Helicopters takes its corporate social responsibility seriously and actively engages in community outreach programs and sponsorships. The company supports initiatives that promote education, health, and the well-being of communities in the regions where it operates.

Whether it’s providing helicopter services for medical evacuations in remote communities or sponsoring local sports teams and events, Great Slave Helicopters strives to make a positive impact on the communities it serves. By giving back and investing in local programs, the company demonstrates its commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen.

Employee Information

Hiring process and requirements

Great Slave Helicopters maintains a rigorous hiring process to ensure that it recruits highly skilled and capable individuals for its team. The company seeks candidates who possess the necessary qualifications, certifications, and experience to meet the demands of the aviation industry.

The hiring process typically includes a review of applications, interviews, reference checks, and a thorough assessment of candidates’ aviation skills and knowledge. Great Slave Helicopters values diversity and inclusivity and ensures that its hiring process is fair and unbiased.

Training and career development

Once hired, employees at Great Slave Helicopters undergo comprehensive training programs to enhance their aviation skills and knowledge. The company invests in ongoing professional development opportunities to ensure that its employees are equipped with the latest industry practices and technologies.

Great Slave Helicopters supports career advancement and growth within the organization, providing opportunities for employees to take on additional responsibilities and pursue specialized roles. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and development, the company enables its employees to reach their full potential.

Employee benefits and policies

Great Slave Helicopters offers a range of employee benefits and policies designed to support the well-being and satisfaction of its staff. These benefits may include competitive salaries, health insurance, retirement plans, and vacation allowances.

The company also places a strong emphasis on work-life balance, recognizing the demanding nature of the aviation industry. Great Slave Helicopters provides policies and resources to support employee mental and physical health, ensuring a positive and supportive work environment.

Future Plans and Projections

Planned expansion or acquisitions

Great Slave Helicopters has ambitious plans for future expansion and growth. The company aims to expand its operational footprint, establishing new bases and offices in strategic locations to better serve its clients’ evolving needs.

Furthermore, Great Slave Helicopters plans to pursue strategic acquisitions that align with its vision and enhance its capabilities. By integrating new technologies, expanding its fleet, and investing in infrastructure, the company anticipates that it will remain at the forefront of the helicopter services industry.

Technological advancements

As technology continues to advance, Great Slave Helicopters embraces innovation and seeks opportunities to integrate cutting-edge technologies into its operations. From utilizing advanced flight navigation systems to applying artificial intelligence for maintenance and operational efficiencies, the company aims to leverage technology to improve safety, performance, and customer experience.

Great Slave Helicopters also recognizes the potential of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and plans to explore their integration into their operations. These technological advancements will enable the company to expand its service offerings, increase operational efficiency, and ensure continued growth and success.

Projected trends for the future

Looking ahead, Great Slave Helicopters anticipates several trends that will shape the helicopter services industry. The company expects increased demand for services related to renewable energy projects, such as wind farm maintenance and support. Additionally, the growth of the tourism industry and the desire for unique travel experiences are expected to drive demand for helicopter tourism services.

Moreover, Great Slave Helicopters recognizes the importance of sustainability and environmental stewardship. The company aims to adopt environmentally friendly practices and explore alternative energy sources to minimize its carbon footprint and contribute to a greener future.

In conclusion, Great Slave Helicopters has a rich history of providing exceptional helicopter services. From its founding to its recent developments, the company has achieved significant milestones and established itself as a leader in the industry. With its diverse fleet, comprehensive services, and commitment to safety and customer satisfaction, Great Slave Helicopters continues to make a positive impact on the aviation industry while contributing to local economies and the communities it serves. As the company looks towards the future, it is poised to embrace technological advancements, expand its operations, and set new trends in the helicopter services industry.