Heli Ski Pilots

Perhaps the most important members of our heli ski team are our pilots. Don’t let the guides hear you saying that though, not to mention our fabulous chefs! However, when it comes to ascending some of the greatest peaks in the northern BC area, there are only a few people qualified and trusted enough to make this happen. Without the pilots we would not have much of a service to offer you; ultimately, we wouldn’t get very far.

Likewise the job of a heli ski pilot has to be one of the most demanding jobs in the entire ski industry. It is no easy task to fly a helicopter in the mountains, and takes years of practice and hundreds of hours of training. While it may seem like a very glamorous job, the responsibility it entails is massive. That is why we have picked the best of the best to help us provide unforgettable experiences for you, here at Last Frontier.

Flying at immensely high altitudes all winter long, dropping off guests on remote peaks and hovering over deep snow, all the while ensuring the safety of the passengers, a heli ski pilot is not a career choice to take lightly. In fact most pilots would express this to be as exciting and focused as it is for you to be skiing down these vast mountains.

Hans Gmoser was arguably the first to spot the potential of helicopter accessed skiing, and would always be asking if it was possible to land on this or that peak. Years on and pilots are managing extraordinary things with their helicopters. Although the machines have changed significantly since then, the demands on the pilots are the same.

Early starts are the norm, and it is common for pilots to be up and clearing snow from their helicopters as early as 5.30am. Weather checks are equally the responsibility of the pilots, as much as our guides – both have to have a thorough understanding of the associated weather patterns of our huge area.

The helicopters themselves live outdoors, protected by their own insulated covers, keeping them warm throughout the cold nights. Engine oil and cockpit heaters are kept in overnight also, and these and the covers have to be continuously moved and maintained to high standards.

It is also the role of the heli ski pilot to give briefings to the clients regarding helicopter safety. Instructions such as how to work the doors, how to activate the ELT (emergency location transmitter), how to disengage the fuel, and where’s appropriate to stand, are all covered. As with the weather checks, the pilot and guide both work together in the smooth running of the helicopter. The guide, sitting to the left of the pilot, will help by giving information regarding landing sites, and will also be fully versed in all the helicopter safety and general procedures.

So next time you come and fly with us, spare a moment to think about the great job our pilots (and guides) do on a day-to-day basis, and the responsibility they hold within our team.

Tags: Heli Skiing, Heliskiing, Heli Ski, Heliski, Heli Skiing Tour, Heli Skiing Holiday, Heli Skiing BC, Heli Skiing Resorts, Heli Skiing Lodges