Hillsboro Aero Academy's Helicopter Division Marks 45-Year Robinson Partnership with Fleet Renewal Order at VERTICON 2026

USA – Hillsboro Heli Academy, the helicopter training division of Oregon-based Hillsboro Aero Academy, has announced the addition of a new Robinson R22 helicopter to its training fleet, with the purchase agreement signed at VERTICON 2026 in Atlanta — marking the first order under a broader fleet renewal program.

• The purchase order, signed during VERTICON 2026 — formerly HAI HELI-EXPO — represents the opening transaction of a long-term fleet modernisation initiative at Hillsboro Heli Academy, with further orders anticipated as the renewal program progresses.
• The Robinson R22 has been a core training aircraft at Hillsboro since 1980, one year after the type received its FAA certification. The academy's relationship with Robinson Helicopter Company spans more than 45 years, beginning with a single R22 at program launch.
• The R22 is positioned by Hillsboro Heli Academy as the foundation of its helicopter training offering due to its efficiency, reliability and cost-effectiveness — factors the academy identifies as critical to maintaining the accessibility and affordability of helicopter pilot training for entry-level students.

Statements

• "Our relationship with Robinson began in 1980, just one year after the Robinson R22 received its certification. Starting with a single R22, our company believed in the Robinson product from the very beginning. Today, with Robinson's renewed commitment to the R22, we remain equally committed to providing affordable, high-quality training for our students for many years to come," Jared Friend, VP of Helicopter Operations, Hillsboro Heli Academy.

About Hillsboro Aero Academy

Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, Hillsboro Aero Academy is a leading US flight training group offering ab initio and advanced training for both fixed-wing and helicopter pilots, with a global student base and career-focused training pathways recognised for producing industry-ready graduates across commercial aviation and specialised operations.

Source: Hillsboro Aero Academy