OUR FLIGHT PROGRAM
Our helicopter operations are built around safety, efficiency, and clear communication. We work with trusted partners: Arrow Helicopters (A-Stars) for our Classic Program and Skyline Helicopters (Augusta Koala) for our Private Program. All aircraft are serviced daily at our on-site hangar by certified engineers.
Our pilots bring extensive mountain flying experience and participate in annual guide training, which includes mock rescue scenarios. During the season, they join daily planning meetings with the guiding team to review snowpack and weather to collaboratively plan for the best ski day possible.
Prior to your first ski day, our pilots deliver a comprehensive helicopter awareness and safety briefing. While out in the field, pilots and guides check-in every half hour with our lodge dispatch who track aircraft location and provide weather updates. Each helicopter is equipped with GPS tracking, a Garmin InReach and rescue equipment.
INDUSTRY AFFILIATIONS
We are a proud member of HeliCat Canada, the trade association of the Canadian helicopter and snowcat skiing industry, and as such are dedicated to the highest operating standards in the industry.
We are also a professional member of the Canadian Avalanche Association and participate in the Industry Information Exchange (InfoEx), an industry-wide avalanche and snow safety information sharing initiative. This daily exchange offers our guiding team and pilots a wealth of information on snow, weather, avalanche and terrain that is shared among all operators across British Columbia and reviewed daily by our guiding team.
BACKCOUNTRY PREPAREDNESS
Through training and education, we are committed to helping our guests understand and navigate the risks of heliskiing. Our guides provide instruction on mountain safety, terrain awareness, communication protocols and how to be a reliable partner in the field.
Prior to skiing or snowboarding, every guest receives comprehensive avalanche and safety training at the lodge. Each guest is equipped with modern safety equipment that includes a Barryvox S transceiver, Mammut Airbag pack, ICOM radio, probe and snow shovel. Guests are trained in use of their transceiver, how to dig, communicate and work together in a mock emergency rescue scenario.
Guides and helicopters carry additional safety equipment, and emergency overnight caches are positioned throughout our terrain in case weather delays your return to the lodge.
SAFETY & RISK AWARENESS
Helicopter skiing, snowboarding, and other activities that take place in wilderness areas, involve the risk of injury. The information contained in the Safety & Risk Awareness section of the Heli Cat Canada website is intended to inform you of the risks, dangers and hazards you may encounter while helicopter skiing or snowboarding, and to help you stay safe while enjoying these activities. Whether you are a participant in these activities or a parent or guardian of a minor participant, please take the time to familiarize yourself with this Safety & Risk Awareness information.
