First name: Jonathan
Age: 35 years old
City of origin: Cortaillod, Neuchâtel
Education: AEC, CPL (H)
Helicopter: RH22, RH44, AS350
Start of training: September 2021
Ever since I was a child, I have dreamed of becoming a helicopter pilot. To me, this machine embodies freedom and allows me to explore inaccessible territories, opening the door to the unknown. Hailing from the majestic Swiss Alps, my ultimate aspiration was to become a rescue pilot.
When I was younger, I felt that my family had more conventional expectations regarding my career, prioritizing paths considered “traditional” and thus pushing my dreams to the sidelines. As a result, I pursued a degree in mechanical engineering—a field that, to be sure, brought me eight years of professional fulfillment.
However, over the years, my dream has never faded—quite the opposite, in fact. But aware that time is running out, I knew that now was the time to make this career change a reality, despite the uncertainties that come with it.
After exploring various options, I concluded that Canada offered the best job prospects after I completed my training. Quite naturally, Hélicraft emerged as the best choice. Their school has an established reputation, their training program is robust, a work visa is guaranteed, and their maintenance standards are excellent. Everything seemed to point in favor of this option.
So, in September 2021, accompanied by my partner, I crossed the Atlantic to settle in this unfamiliar province and embark on a new adventure. There were many changes, but training began quickly, and after just two weeks, I was able to take the controls and fly on my own.
The training turned out to be intense, as there was so much to learn. However, the curriculum was well-structured, alternating between practical flight sessions and classroom instruction. My enthusiasm for helicopters quickly grew, and I am now convinced that my passion for helicopters has turned into a full-blown addiction.
After completing my training in September 2022, I was fortunate enough to be selected to join the dynamic team of young drivers. This opportunity brought me immense satisfaction. Although the start of the season in the middle of winter was a bit slow for my liking, it allowed us to master the various aspects of our new job. We had time to gain additional knowledge that will prove useful throughout our careers.
Later that January, I seized the opportunity to join the ground instructor team. Teaching has always been a passion of mine, and this experience will only strengthen my knowledge, particularly in meteorology, navigation, aviation law, and flight theory. In addition to providing a financial boost, this opportunity also opens the door to the possibility of becoming a flight instructor—a prospect that greatly appeals to me. It is a unique chance to share my knowledge and experience with future pilots, thereby contributing, I hope, to their professional growth. I am extremely grateful to be able to actively participate in passing on aviation knowledge.
With the arrival of spring, a new group of “young pilots” has joined the Career+ program. There are now eight of us on the flight roster, and recognizing the importance of maximizing our resources, I applied for the AS350 type rating. Despite the significant costs involved and my initial reservations about paying for type ratings, this step would allow us to better meet the demands of the summer season. Furthermore, these flight hours are of great value for my future career. After discussing it with the team, I finally took the plunge.
After six months and 200 flight hours under my belt, I have no regrets about the choices I’ve made so far. This profession is exciting, demanding, and challenging all at once. When you embark on this training, you’re committing to a real marathon. Great opportunities arise, but you have to be ready to seize them, because behind every success lies relentless hard work.
In this profession, a thirst for knowledge and thorough preparation are essential. It is crucial to continually broaden our horizons and hone our skills, as the challenges we face are endless. This drive to constantly improve is what makes this career so rewarding, inspiring me to give my best every day.