Market Intelligence: North America

Hillsboro Heli Academy, Oregon-based flight training provider has been granted examining authority by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This development allows the academy to internally evaluate and certify the proficiency of its students, eliminating the need for external designated pilot examiners and enhancing the efficiency of the training process.

Hillsboro Heli Academy, a division of Hillsboro Aero Academy, is an FAA-approved Part 141 flight school that offers comprehensive training programs from private pilot through flight instructor. The academy’s fleet includes Robinson R22 and R44 helicopters, along with state-of-the-art helicopter simulators, all based in Troutdale, Oregon.

Jared Friend, the general manager of Hillsboro Heli Academy, expressed enthusiasm about the achievement, stating, “We are thrilled to have earned examining authority from the FAA. This achievement reflects our unwavering dedication to providing top-tier flight training and our commitment to excellence in helicopter training.”

This recognition sets Hillsboro Heli Academy apart, as only a limited number of FAA-certificated pilot schools possess examining authority for their courses. According to the Flight Schools Association of North America, out of the 521 FAA-certificated pilot schools, merely 29 are approved to hold examining authority for at least one of their courses.

Source: Hillsboro Aero Academy
Photo Credit: Hillsboro Aero Academy