By pooling their strengths, European Helicopter Center in Norway and Helicentre in the Netherlands can present a larger combined helicopter fleet, even more specialised instructors and a robust organisation.

This new programme has been in development for more than 18 months. Now approved, the course is available for students wishing to enrol as early as next month on to the next integrated intake.

Leading academies will share their knowledge and experience across borders. Newly graduated pilots can use the network to find suitable career openings with governments and helicopter operators.