Columbia Helicopters is pleased to announce an agreement with the Canadian government, to acquire eight recently-retired Vertol CH-113 “Labrador” helicopters. The Canadian government previously used these aircraft to conduct Search and Rescue operations.
These aircraft will join the 15 similar models that are already part of Columbia’s fleet of heavy-lifting helicopters. The first three helicopters have already arrived at the company’s headquarters at the Aurora State Airport in Oregon.
“These aircraft will help us to strengthen our position within the industry,” said Mike Fahey, President of Columbia Helicopters. “In turn, this will allow us to provide a more cost-effective product to our customers worldwide.”
Columbia Helicopters is the only commercial operator of the Vertol 107-II and Model 234 Chinook in the world, and is also the world’s largest utility helicopter operator. The company uses its fleet of heavy-lift helicopters to support logging, construction, fire fighting and petroleum exploration support operations around the world. Additionally, the company uses their aircraft to conduct stream restoration projects throughout the Pacific Northwest, helping to re-create traditional fish spawning grounds.
