Bristow Helicopters is working with UK training provider Helicentre Aviation and will be awarding a brand new 2019 Bristow Commercial Pilot Scholarship, adding to the academy's well-established and highly successful Professional Helicopter Pilot Scholarship programme. The joint initiative is driven by both companies' pro-active approach to recruitment, attracting fresh talent to industry, and helping stand-out individuals progress into careers in the fields of oil and gas and SAR.

The Scholarship Programme is now entering its eighth year running, and was originally created by Helicentre to meet its own recruitment needs, owing to the success of its professional flight training and utility operations. Graduates of the programme, through initial employment as Flight Instructors at the academy, have since become established in a variety of offshore and onshore roles including oil and gas, utility and HEMS.

Bristow Helicopters UK operates multi engine IFR passenger transport in support of the oil and gas industry, and search and rescue missions on behalf of Her Majesty's Coastguard. The winner of the Bristow scholarship will receive full funding of their 35-hour modular CPL(H) course from Helicentre, but will also benefit from access to Bristow's expertise, being individually mentored with opportunities to see the operation and develop the skills and attributes required of an offshore helicopter pilot.

With Bristow actively participating in Helicentre's 2019 selection process, and the addition of yet another scholarship to the existing CPL(H), FI(H) and part-funded scholarships on offer, the calibre and performance of applicants is expected to be extremely high. The scholarship programme is proven in creating increased career awareness and providing life-changing opportunities to trainee helicopter pilots. So far the value of scholarships awarded by Helicentre has exceeded GBP650,000.

Applicants for the 2019 Bristow CPL(H) Scholarship must have obtained their PPL(H) at Helicentre Aviation Academy. Full eligibility criteria and timescales for selection will be released shortly.