CHC Helicopter Corporation (“CHC”) (TSX: FLY.A and FLY.B; NYSE: FLI) regrets to announce the death of founder, controlling shareholder and Executive Chairman Craig Laurence Dobbin, O.C. after a brief illness. Mr. Dobbin passed away in Beachy Cove, Newfoundland and Labrador, surrounded by members of his family. Mr. Dobbin battled his illness with the same courage, strength and dignity that characterized his career as one of the greatest businessmen in the global aviation industry.
Craig Dobbin founded Sealand Helicopters with one small aircraft in 1977 and launched CHC Helicopter Corporation through an IPO on the TSX in 1987. Through timely acquisitions, strategic decisions and the support of many dedicated, loyal employees, he helped build CHC into the largest helicopter services company in the world. He delivered his final speech to shareholders with his usual wit and charm on Sept. 28, 2006 in Vancouver.
Deputy Chairman Mark D. Dobbin has assumed the duties of Chairman until such time as the Board of Directors meets to elect a new Chairman. Mark Dobbin served as a director of the Corporation from 1994 to 1998 and from 2001 to 2003, and was re-elected to the Board as Deputy Chairman Sept. 28, 2006.
Craig L. Dobbin will be deeply missed by his many loved ones, fellow employees, friends and associates around the world.
