Bristow launches 2023 cadet programme and IR scholarship to create next generation of UK pilots

ABERDEEN, Scotland, January 27, 2023 -- Bristow Group Inc. (NYSE: VTOL) is looking for the pilots of the future to join their prestigious 2023 UK cadet programme.

Run in partnership with Helicentre Aviation the Bristow UK cadet programme offers a unique pathway to becoming a helicopter pilot. There are four places available on this year’s course which will take cadets from having little flight experience, to being qualified commercial helicopter pilots, flying as part of Bristow’s North Sea team.

But that’s not all for 2023, as Bristow is also looking for two pilots currently holding a CPL(H) to receive valuable Instrument Rating scholarships.

The Bristow cadet programme, now in its fifth year, is unique among UK helicopter operators and builds on a 50 Year legacy of providing careers to future pilots. It takes successful applicants all the way from their first ‘ab-initio’ training on an Integrated CPL(H) course to achieving their Multi-Engine Instrument Rating – giving them the skills and qualifications necessary to fly with Bristow in the North Sea.

Bristow UK Director, Matt Rhodes, said: “We are enormously pleased to launch our cadet programme for 2023. The successful recruits will embark on a life-changing course, taking them from having little flight experience to becoming fully qualified, professional helicopter pilots.

“On graduating from Helicentre Aviation, the cadets will join the Bristow team where they will receive further operational training at our specialist Aberdeen training centre, which includes three advanced, full-motion helicopter simulators.

“From there they will begin flying in the North Sea as First Officers with Bristow, the world’s largest helicopter operator.”

The Bristow Instrument Rating scholarship course is also open for 2023.

 If you hold a UK CPL(H), have 70 hours of ‘Pilot in Command’ time and passed the ATPL(H)/IR theory exams you may qualify for our 2023 Instrument Rating scholarship programme. Send your CV and a covering letter to sponsorship@bristowgroup.com by 28 February. Applicants need to have the right to live and work in the UK.  An existing Type rating on the AW109 is also desirable.

Bristow has worked closely with UK helicopter training experts Helicentre Aviation for several years, helping many budding pilots make their dream job a reality. Full details about the 2023

UK cadet programme can be found at www.flyheli.co.uk/bristow applications close on 15 February 2023. Helicentre Aviation are hosting a careers open day on January 28. Visit https://www.flyheli.co.uk/calendar/helicopter-careers-open-day/ for more details.

Selection for the Cadet sponsorship is expected to be confirmed in April ahead of training commencing in May at Helicentre Aviation’s training centre at Leicester Airport.