International Students

Welcome International Students to L R Helicopters

At L R Helicopters, we’re committed to making your dream of becoming a helicopter pilot a reality, no matter where you’re from. We understand the unique challenges faced by English Second Language (ESL) students and native English speakers alike. Recognizing that language can often be a significant hurdle, we’ve crafted an inclusive environment designed to help you overcome these barriers and succeed.

Why English Proficiency Matters for Pilots

Effective communication is crucial for commercial pilots, whether it’s speaking English over the radio or interacting with customers. That’s why Transport Canada requires a minimum operational level of 4. However, at L R Helicopters, we set the bar higher, requiring a minimum English language level of 6 for admission. This standard ensures our students are well-prepared for the demands of aviation communication. Prospective students must demonstrate their proficiency through the IELTS exam. For detailed information on language requirements and proficiency scores, please refer to the Alberta Advanced Education guidelines.

How L R Helicopters Supports You

We go above and beyond traditional flight and ground training to provide international students with comprehensive support:

  • English Language Assistance: Should you need help improving your English, we offer courses tailored to ESL learners.
  • Visa Application Support: Our team is here to guide you through the necessary paperwork for the student visa application process, making it as smooth as possible.
  • Accommodation Assistance: Finding a place to call home while you study is crucial. We’re here to help you find suitable accommodation.
  • Multilingual Staff: Our diverse team includes proficient speakers of French, Italian, German, Portuguese, and Spanish. While our instruction is delivered in English, our multilingual staff can help you navigate any challenges or concerns that arise from being far from home.

Customized Training for International Students

We recognize that aviation requirements can vary significantly from one country to another. Contact us directly to tailor your training program to meet these specific needs and to ensure you meet all regulatory requirements.

Join us at L R Helicopters and embark on your journey to becoming a skilled, confident, and communicative helicopter pilot. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way.

DLI Program Information at L R Helicopters

At L R Helicopters, we are proud to offer our Commercial Helicopter Pilot Licence (CHPL) program as a designated learning program for international students. This designation means that the CHPL program meets the criteria set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for international students to obtain a study permit.

Designated Learning Program

  • Commercial Helicopter Pilot Licence (CHPL): Our CHPL program is recognized as a Designated Learning Program, which is eligible for international students applying for a study permit in Canada. This program is specifically designed to provide the necessary skills and knowledge to become a licensed commercial helicopter pilot. For information about the CHPL visit Commercial Helicopter Pilot License.

Non-Designated Programs

Please note that our other courses and programs are not designated and therefore do not qualify for international student study permits. These non-designated programs are intended for domestic students or international students who do not require a study permit.

Student Acceptance Letter

Upon acceptance into our CHPL program, international students will receive an acceptance letter that specifies the designation status of the program. This letter is a critical document for the study permit application process.

To ensure the safety and readiness of our aspiring pilots, both the commercial and private license pathways at L R Helicopters necessitate a comprehensive medical examination conducted by a Transport Canada Medical Examiner (CAME).

  • Commercial License Applicants are required to obtain a Class 1 medical certification. This involves a thorough physical examination, vision and hearing tests, and an EKG to assess heart health.
  • Private License Candidates must secure a Class 3 medical certification, which includes similar health assessments as the Class 1 but tailored to the requirements for private flying.

It’s important to note that while Transport Canada sets specific vision standards, it’s not mandatory for your eyesight to be natural. Corrective measures to meet the visual requirements are acceptable.

To streamline your entry into flight training, L R Helicopters advises completing all medical assessments before starting your flight lessons. This proactive approach ensures that you are medically fit and eligible, preventing any delays in your training schedule.

To find a medical examiner in your area please visit, Transport Canada Examiner.

M.D. Brendan Adams
YBW Aeromedical Clinic
Unit A 152 MacLaurin Drive T3Z 3S4
(403) 269-5323
Fax (403) 264-5362
adamsbd@telus.net
www.aviationdoc.com
M.D. Katherine A Helleur
The Airfield Clinic YYC
Suite 105A (upstairs)
5621 11 Street NE Calgary AB
T2E 6Z7
(403) 275 7705
Fax (403) 275 7701
airfieldclinic@blueberryair.com

 

Navigating the Immigration Process for International Students

Understanding and navigating the immigration process for studying in Canada can be complex, especially as regulations frequently change. To ensure you have the most current information, we advise checking the latest foreign student requirements here. It’s essential to meet all Canada Immigration Citizenship (CIC) criteria to proceed.

Key Points on Obtaining a Canadian Study Permit

  • For Programs Over Six Months: A Canadian study permit is required. This permit acts as your student visa throughout your stay in Canada.
  • For Shorter Programs: If your course or program is six months or less, you technically don’t need a study permit. However, applying for one in advance is wise. Without a permit, should you wish to extend your studies or enroll in a different program, you’ll need to leave Canada to apply for one.
  • Permit Renewal: If you have a study permit and wish to continue your studies, you can apply for renewal from within Canada.
  • Work Opportunities: For full-time students at accredited institutions like L R Helicopters, a study permit enables part-time work on campus. Opportunities may also extend to off-campus work, co-op positions, or internships as part of your study program. Additionally, it opens pathways to remain in Canada as a permanent resident or to seek employment post-graduation.

For personalized guidance through the immigration process, we recommend the services of:

Phoenix Legal
2333 18 Ave N.E, Suite 236 Calgary, AB T2E 8T6
Tel: 403.568.3588
Fax: 403.568.3588
Abdulaw@telus.net 
www.canaimmigration.com
Zemp Law Group
Suite 401, 1110 Centre Street NE
Calgary, AB
T2E-2R2
Tel: 403 246 2692
info@zemplaw.com

Choosing the right representative to guide you through your immigration process is a crucial step. For detailed advice and instructions on selecting an authorized representative, please visit the official Canada Immigration and Citizenship (CIC) webpage: Choosing a Representative.

Consulting Canadian Immigration Lawyers

For expert legal guidance on navigating the Canadian immigration process, consider visiting Canada Immigration Lawyers. This resource can provide you with professional advice and representation, ensuring your immigration journey is as smooth and informed as possible.

Study at L R Helicopters: A Designated Learning Institution

L R Helicopters is proud to hold the status of a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). This designation means that international students are welcome and eligible to apply for enrollment in our programs. When applying, please include our DLI number, DLI #019257308652, to ensure your application is properly processed. This number is a key part of your study permit application, signifying our institution’s recognition and eligibility for international student programs.

Finding Your Perfect Accommodation 

L R Helicopters is ideally located at the Springbank Airport, just west of Calgary. Given the absence of public transport to Springbank, having personal transportation is essential. This flexibility allows our students to choose their preferred living area based on their lifestyle, needs, and budget.

Living Options to Suit Every Taste

Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant energy of downtown Calgary, with its lively nightlife, bars, and restaurants, or prefer the tranquility of the suburbs or the rustic charm of the nearby mountain town of Canmore, we’re here to assist you in finding accommodation that fits your preferences. Each location offers its unique advantages, from spectacular scenery and challenging flying conditions to the natural beauty of the Rockies and national parks.

Experience the Best of Calgary and Beyond

Our location doesn’t just offer convenience for training; it’s a gateway to a rich mix of entertainment and recreation. Calgary boasts an exciting nightlife and a plethora of cultural events throughout the year. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find an abundance of activities right at your doorstep, including hiking, skiing, snowboarding, hunting, fishing, and climbing. The area’s spectacular scenery alone is worth exploring. With so many options, deciding where to live might be your biggest challenge!

Start Your Accommodation Search

To help you begin your search for the perfect accommodation, here are some resources for available listings in Calgary. Keep in mind, that Calgary’s economic landscape is dynamic, affecting both availability and cost, which can vary significantly by location:

Embark on your journey with L R Helicopters, and find not just a place to live, but a place to call home amidst the beauty and adventure of Calgary and its surroundings.