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Oregon, USA – Hillsboro Heli Academy (HHA), one of the United States’ largest helicopter flight training institutions, has highlighted its Career Pathway Program — offering specialized pilot training routes that directly align with high-demand careers in emergency medical services (EMS), aerial firefighting, and offshore operations. Through strategic partnerships with leading operators such as ADAC Luftrettung gGmbH and Bristow Norway, the academy continues to strengthen its position as a key global provider of professional helicopter pilot training.

The Career Pathway Program is designed to prepare helicopter pilots for employment in mission-critical aviation roles, including EMS, utility, firefighting, and offshore transport. It offers structured progression from initial training to guaranteed interviews or job placement opportunities with international partners.

HHA’s partnerships provide direct employment linkage with two of Europe’s leading rotorcraft operators:

• ADAC Luftrettung gGmbH Pathway: One of Europe’s largest air rescue organizations, operating more than 50 helicopters across 37 bases in Germany. The partnership addresses a growing pilot shortage—projected to reach 100–200 new EMS pilots in Germany over the next decade.
  • Students complete HHA’s Joint EASA/FAA Professional Pilot Program, after which ADAC covers the DLR aptitude test costs. Successful candidates join ADAC’s pilot pool for potential employment as rescue pilots once vacancies become available.
• Bristow Norway Offshore Track: Established in December 2021, this track provides a guaranteed pilot interview with Bristow Norway upon completion of program requirements. The training integrates EASA CPL with ATPL theory alongside FAA PPL, IR, CPL, CFI, and CFII certifications, enabling cross-qualified graduates.
  • Students typically complete the program in 12–15 months, accumulating around 200 flight hours. Those on F-1 student visas can remain in the U.S. to work as instructors or commercial helicopter pilots for up to 23.5 months, often reaching 1,500 flight hours before returning to Europe.
  • Applicants for the Bristow Norway track must demonstrate proficiency in Norwegian, Swedish, or Danish and pass a dedicated aptitude assessment prior to acceptance.

The program’s long-term objective is to create a global talent pipeline connecting the U.S. training environment with the European helicopter sector’s growing demand for professional pilots.

Source: Hillsboro Heli Academy