Flight Training Centre Information

Table of Contents:

LOCATION

The Springbank airport is located 10 kilometres west of the city of Calgary, slightly north of the Trans-Canada Highway #1. It is in the directly in the heart of Municipal District of Rocky View No. 44, and occupies approximately 420 hectares (1040 acres) of land. The airport is surrounded by mostly flat, agricultural land that slopes gently northward towards the Bow River. Springbank is conveniently located near the suburban area of Calgary and many small towns like Bragg Creek and Cochrane. There is emergency Fire/EMS services located at the airport and can be contacted by dialling 911. The Canadian federal government still maintains ownership of the Springbank Airport; however, all operations are contracted by lease to the Calgary Airport Authority.

HISTORY

Once upon a time (not to make you old timers feel old or anything, but…), the site of the Springbank Airport was the location of the MacLaurin farm. This changed in February 1969 when construction on the airport began. The construction took approximately 2 years to complete, with the official Grand opening being held in July 1971. At the time, Transport Canada was looking for a solution to the growing congestion problem at the nearby Calgary International Airport. While constructing a parallel runway at CYYC would have solved this problem, TC decided to build a smaller relief airport similar to St. Andrews close to Winnipeg, Manitoba. Calgary/Springbank was then designed with the small aircraft (≤12,500 lb.) market in mind. In October 1997, the Calgary Airport Authority officially assumed control of the facility from the federal government, under a 60-year lease agreement that is still in effect.

AIRPORT

Springbank is a great place to fly! We have some of the best scenery in the world right here in our own back yard. It only takes about a 10-minute flight west to be in the “Rockies” exposed to some of the most beautiful views and be able to experience the art of Mountain Flying. Being so close to the Rockies, allows us to waste little ferry time and to get you into the mountains to get started on some of the best mountain training the world can offer.

The airport itself is located in a rural area surrounded by farms, ranches, and many smaller communities. Since our pilot training has taught us to be environmentally sensitive, remember what type of areas you are flying over.

There are some things to keep in mind when flying at CYBW:

  • Altitude: we are located at 3940 feet ASL. For many pilots this is a challenge in itself. High-densityaltitude conditions will challenge you to become very efficient at pushing the aircraft to its max performance.
  • The Prairies and the Foothills: These areas provide a great environment to build up your naviga-tional skills as well as improving your “confined area” techniques, getting you ready for Forestry, and the Oil & Gas Industry.
  • The Rockies: A natural advanced training site, where you can experience some of the most severe flying conditions you will find in your career. Valleys, peaks, glaciers, lakes, rivers, canyons, forests, all together in a very different experience.
  • The Wind: The area surrounding Springbank is home to our famous westerly winds. Called “chinooks,” these winds can be very strong and make the flying very challenging. In addition, northerly winds during winter can bring the wind chill factor down to -50c!
  • The Weather: Winter in Springbank can be extreme, from -35c to + 40c. Snow, sun, and thunderstorms are common in the prairies can be very strong, and you will learn how to deal with all of these con-ditions. Your weather knowledge as a pilot will reach a higher level.
  • Air traffic: Springbank airport is the ninth busiest airport in Canada, with nearly 200000 aircraft movements per year! As a result, you will learn how to manage a very intense volume of radio communication. In the beginning, this may be overwhelming, but with practice and experience, you will become very proficient and effective. IFR training is also available on runway 34, and is equipped for ILS and GPS approaches.

The proximity of the Calgary International Airport and the Calgary control zone, give you the opportunity to learn how to deal with busy international airline terminals, as well as all the procedures and radio communication necessary. Radar vectors, assigned altitudes, reporting point will become familiar to you.

LENGTH OF THE PROGRAMS

Commercial Pilot License Helicopter

The CPLH course is based on 5-month time frame. Please contact us for start dates as classes begin year round. The LR Helicopters commercial course focuses on getting new pilots ready for the upcoming summer work season. You will be fresh out of your course and able to show off what you’ve learnt!

Private Pilot License Helicopter

The PPHL courses are based on 5-month time frame. It can be customized to allow for part time training to work around personal schedules.

Advanced Training

Instructor Ratings, Type Ratings, Mountain Training, Night Ratings, and VFR OTT Ratings can all be scheduled year round, and customized to fit personal needs.

GROUND SCHOOL

Our ground school program is based on the Transport Canada Study and Reference Guide for Private and Commercial Pilot Licence – Helicopter (TP 2476 E)

(Copies of the manuals will be provided to you by the school) but you can download it online from the Transport Canada web site here.

Lesson will include:
(See course description for detailed information)

  • Air Law and Procedures
  • Airframes, Engines and Systems
  • Theory of Flight
  • Meteorology
  • Instruments
  • Navigation General
  • Navigation Radio Aids
  • Flight Operations
  • Human Factors

In addition to practice exams, videos and reviews.

  • 135 Hours (80 minimum requirements by CAR’s) for the CPHL course approximately 7 weeks.
  • 75 Hours (40 minimum requirements by CAR’s) for the CPHL(A) course approximately 4 weeks.
  • 80 Hours (40 minimum requirements by CAR’s) for the PPHL course approximately 4 weeks.

Classes are scheduled for Monday to Friday mornings or afternoons (based on the weather to allow for daily flight training)
(*) a detailed schedule will be published prior the beginning of the course
(**)Ground Training on individual bases is available.

FLIGHT TRAINING

L R HELICOPTERS INC. flight training centre’s goal is to prepare our students to perform above the industry standard without further training done by the operator.

These days, operators are looking for low time pilots that can safely perform basic flight missions without having to spend a large amount of time and money on further training. The average training in the industry is generally done on small two seat “training” helicopters, with little operational training available due to their small size and inability to carry much payload. However, our commercial course based exclusively on the RH44 Raven II. This larger helicopter, gives you the student the best opportunity to maximize your training time and perform tasks relevant to industry work like long lining, bucketing, and tours.

You will fly the full 100 hours of the course in the RH44. In the end, you will have a total of 100 hours, with at least 35 hours solo and most likely 40 hours Pilot In Command. When you leave you will feel competent behind the controls and have had the chance to use your spare hours to en-hance your commercial flying techniques by introducing some general OPS training. L R Helicopter is committed to providing the RH44 Raven II at an affordable price meeting the students necessity for successful and affordable training.

EC120B and BH206 are also available for training.

All basic flight training will be based on Transport Canada Flight Training Manual (copies of the manuals will be provided to you by the school) but you can download it on line from TC web site at your convenience.

http://www.tc.gc.ca/air/menu.htm

INSTRUCTORS

Transport Canada sets very high standards for helicopter instructors. These standards cover the full range of instructors from Class I, which are the most experienced and highest rated, to the primary Class IV.

However, education alone does not make good instructors! Here at LR Helicopters our instructors come from different backgrounds including: Forestry, Geological Exploration, Oil and Gas, Mountain Operations, Firefighting, Heli-skiing, video and photo production, and many more. These diverse backgrounds allow our instructors to pass along further knowledge and skills, which increase your understanding and skill level. During the summer months our instructors work in the industry continually increasing their knowl-edge base and honing their skills. This allows our instructors to be in top condition when they return during the winter months to teach.

AIRCRAFT

ROBINSON R44 RAVEN II:

The R44 Raven II delivers the performance of an expensive turbine helicopter at an affordable price. The low price is due to the R44’s piston engine, which reduces maintenance and fuel costs. Its sleek design, impressive speed, and unparalleled reliability give it the competitive edge in today’s fast-paced, changing environment. The R44 will be the primary machine most graduates will fly after entering the industry. The R44 Raven II’s low operating cost allows students to complete their training at only a fraction of the cost associated with larger, more expensive helicopters, all while still receiving the same quality of flying experience.

EUROCOPTER EC120 B:

The EC120 B’s high endurance and extended range give the aircraft an extensive hovering capability, making it a good choice for a variety of passenger transport missions. Thanks to the integration of the latest technologies, such as the newest generation Fenestron tail rotor, Spheriflex main rotor, VEMD monitoring system, landing gear and energy absorbing fuel system, the EC120 B has proven itself as the most efficient aircraft in its class. These new technologies make for a: safe, comfortable, quiet, and enjoyable flying experience.

Bell Helicopters 206 B3:

The Bell 206 is a twin-blade single engine turbine helicopter. It is able to perform a variety of roles and has the best safety record in its class. The Bell 206 has been the workhorse of the helicopter industry since 1967, and because of this, it now has some of the lowest operating costs of any turbine helicopter.

ACCOMMODATION

Calgary offers a wide selection of housing solutions.

FOOD

A cafeteria is available at the airport and it is based at the “Calgary Flying Club.” It is open Monday to Friday for breakfast and lunch. A Large selection of restaurants, fast food and grocery shops are within a 15 Minute driving dis-tance from the airport.

LR Helicopters base has a Kitchen with microwaves, a fridge, stove and a lunchroom. Feel free to bring your own lunch as well.

MEDICALS

The Civil Aviation Medicine Branch (CAM) was created to enable Canada to fulfill its commitments associated with the 1944 Convention on International Civil Aviation. The primary activity of CAM is the performance of medical assessments required for the certification of Licensed Aviation Personnel. Approximately 55,000 medical examinations are conducted annually by over 950 designated Civil Aviation Medical Examiners across Canada and overseas.

LR Helicopters recommends the services of M.D. Brendan Adams, YBW Aeromedical Clinic. Dr. Adams who is based out of Springbank Airport:

Here you can find the list of other Transport Canada Certified Physician’s from all around Canada.

EXAMINATIONS

THE AVIATION-LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY TEST

The Aviation-Language Proficiency Test (ALPT) is an English-language or French-language proficiency test, set in an aviation context. It is designed for people with some knowledge of aviation whose native language is not English. However, all applicants, including native English or native French speakers, are required to complete the test.

http://www.tc.gc.ca/civilaviation/general/personnel/test_taker_guide.htm

PSTAR

Applicants, who apply for a Student Pilot Permit, must pass a Transport Canada written examination on Aviation Regulations and Air Traffic Control Procedures. As well, military and certain foreign licensed applicants seeking a Canadian Private Pilot Licence need to pass the same examination. This examination is called the Student Pilot Permit or Private Pilot License for Foreign and Military Applicants, Aviation Regulation Examination, the computer code for which is PSTAR.

PSTAR consists of 50 questions. The pass mark is 90% and the examination will be corrected to 100% by the training unit or, wherever the examination is written in a Transport Canada facility, by a feedback letter keyed to the questions in this guide. In the interest of flight safety, it is very im-portant that you thoroughly review your weaker areas.

http://www.tc.gc.ca/civilaviation/general/Exams/guides/tp11919/General.htm

RESTRICTED OPERATOR CERTIFICATE WITH AERONAUTICAL QUALIFICATION

Examinations for the Restricted Operator Certificate with Aeronautical Qualification can be conducted at a district office of Industry Canada or by one of its accredited examiners. These examin-ers are typically individuals who are engaged in the aeronautical industry.

The examination may consist of written, practical and oral exercises. The candidate must satisfy an examiner that he or she:

Is capable of operating radiotelephone equipment; possesses a general knowledge of radiotelephone operating procedures, of the international regulations applicable to the aeronautical service and, specifically, of those regulations relating to the safety of life; and possesses a general knowledge of the Radio Communication Act.

http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/smt-gst.nsf/eng/sf01397.html#sect1

PRIVATE AND COMMERCIAL PILOT WRITTEN EXAMINATION

Applicants for the Private and Commercial Pilot Licence in the Helicopter Category must demonstrate their knowledge by writing a Transport Canada multiple-choice examination.

These examinations are divided into four mandatory subject areas and require an overall pass mark of 60%. As well, the candidate must achieve 60% in each of the four subject areas.

http://www.tc.gc.ca/CivilAviation/publications/tp2476/general.htm
http://www.tc.gc.ca/civilaviation/general/Exams/guides/tp13728/Menu.htm

FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR RATINGS

Applicants for Class 1, 2 and 4 flight instructor ratings are required to write the appropriate Transport Canada multiple-choice examination on subjects contained in this guide. As well, helicopter candidates are to refer to reference guide TP 2476E.

Applicants for a Class 4 Flight Instructor Rating – Helicopter are required to write the FIREN exami-nation on instrument instruction in addition to the HIRAF examination. Class 2 and Class 1 candidates write the same examination, however, a mark of 80% or higher is required to meet Class 1 standards.

http://www.tc.gc.ca/CivilAviation/publications/tp2810/general.htm

FLIGHT TEST

All of the flight test items required by the flight test guide must be successfully completed with a minimum passing mark for the Private Pilot Licence of 72 (50%) or for the Commercial Pilot Li-cence of 104 (70%) must be achieved.

Ground flight test items are those exercises or tasks performed prior to the pre-flight inspection of the aircraft. Air flight test items are those exercises, tasks or manoeuvres performed with the aircraft, including the pre-flight inspection, start-up, run-up and emergency procedures.

http://www.tc.gc.ca/civilaviation/general/Flttrain/planes/menu.htm#Helicopter

PAYMENT

At registration, $1,000.00 CAD deposit is required.

Deposit is refundable. Administration fees of $100.00 CAD for cancellation up to 30 days prior the course commencement date. Cancellation between 30 days and the day of the commencement date, expenses incurred by the school will be charged to the account.

It is the responsibility of the student to maintain sufficient funds in the account during flight training. Flight training will be suspended if sufficient funds are not available in the account. LR Helicopters Inc. will accept cheques, bank money transfers, and interac. Credit cards are not accepted as a form of payment.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Canadian Residents Financial Assistance Program available for individuals at:

TAX CREDITS

Tax and benefit information for students

http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/gncy/txnf/tnst/menu-eng.html

LIFE LONG LEARNING PLAN (LLP)

http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tx/ndvdls/tpcs/rrsp-reer/llp-reep/menu-eng.html

HARASSMENT AND DISCRIMINATION

LR Helicopters commits to the following principles on discriminatory practices:

  • To provide an environment free of racism, discrimination and bias, where all persons are treated with respect and dignity;
  • To recognize that this responsibility extends to all individuals involved with the organization;
  • To implement anti-discriminatory policies that outline the organization’s commitment to and expectations of its participants, staff and members;
  • To investigate and address any perceived violations;
  • To eradicate discrimination by identifying and challenging barriers that exists in obtaining or accessing activities, programs and/or employment;
  • To promote the principles of equity for all groups of diversity and have this reflected in the organi-zation’s policies, procedures, programs, and in relations with staff, participants and the community at large;
  • To ensure full representation of all persons in the development, implementation and evaluation of LR Helicopters Inc. policies and programs.
  • L R HELICOPTERS INC. employees and students are entitled to a harassment free environment in their workplace.
  • L R HELICOPTERS INC. employees and students will not tolerate nor condone behaviour that is likely to undermine the dignity or self-esteem of an individual, or which creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment.

Harassment is not a joke. It is an expression of perceived power by the harasser over another person, usually for reasons over which the victim has little or no control. Prohibited grounds under the various Human Rights Codes can include sex, race, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, political or religious beliefs, and place of national origin.

Harassment can be defined as any action (verbal, psychological or physical) on a single or repeated basis which humiliates, insults or degrades and is known or ought reasonably to be known to be unwelcome by the victim of the harassment.

Harassment can include but is not limited to: unwanted comments, slurs, racist or sexist jokes, pictures or posters, bullying or intimidation, graffiti, physical contact of any kind, remarks about a person’s appearance or personal life, unwelcome sexual advances or demands, suggestive looks or gestures.
L R HELICOPTERS. takes harassment complaints seriously. LR Helicopters Inc. management, for any necessary follow-up, will investigate complaints of harassment by L R HELICOPTERS. employees and or students. A substantiated complaint will result in action by L R HELICOPTERS., which could include discipline up to and including termination.

SAFETY

“Danger” – Means any existing or potential hazard or condition or any current or future activity that could reasonably be expected to cause injury or illness to a person exposed to it before the hazard or condition can be corrected, or the activity altered, whether or not the injury or illness occurs immediately after the exposure to the hazard, condition or activity, and includes any exposure to a hazardous substance that is likely to result in a chronic illness, in disease or in damage to the reproductive system.
For instructors and students on-board aircraft, potentially dangerous, situations could occur during preparations for flight or once on-board the aircraft, in a variety of different scenarios, such as:

  • Security issues on-board aircraft;
  • Concerns about mechanical issues;
  • Pressures to complete flight on schedule;
  • Deteriorating weather conditions; or
  • Medical conditions

When a student on an aircraft that is in operation has reasonable cause to believe that a dangerous, or potentially dangerous, situation exists, they must immediately notify the person in charge of the aircraft of the circumstances of the danger.

A student who has or was prevented from refusing to fly, while the aircraft was in operation, under any of the above circumstances, must report the circumstances of the matter to the CFI without delay after the aircraft has landed. When a student on an aircraft that is in operation during a solo training flight, has reasonable cause to believe that a dangerous, or potentially dangerous, situation exists, they must immediately terminate the flight and notify the supervising instructor or the CFI of the circumstances of the danger.

ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS

  • 18 years of age (training may begin before the age of 18)
  • Birth Certificate or proof of Canadian Citizenship
  • Passport in case of foreigner student (*)

(*) study visa necessary for periods greater than 6 months, check with Immigration Canada for the requirements
http://www.international.gc.ca/iyp-pij/intro_incoming-intro_entrant.aspx
(**) Parents/Guardian signature required less than 18 years of age
(***)Please contact LR Helicopters to receive the application form.