External Load Helicopter Pilot
Reach your maximum potential, catering for new or seasoned pilots, our external load course gives pilots the long line skills that are a necessity in the Canadian commercial utility environment.
Partnered with Exploration Helicopters, Foothills Helicopter Training Academy provides training for pilots with current commercial experience in drill moves for mining, fire fighting for Alberta and British Colombia forestry, bird towing and more, giving a unique real-world perspective on external load training.
We also offer training on the versatile AS350. Choose your training program to suit your budget and give yourself the best possible advantage in the real world of the commercial helicopter pilot.
Course Details:
- Course Length – Course length can vary. Contact
- Upcoming classes – On request
- Location – Okotoks
- Class schedule – Daylight hours
- Astar 350 – $2200/hr
- Robinson R44 – $850/hr

External Load Licence
Other Courses
Foothills Helicopter Training Academy offers industry led, real world commercial pilot training, accelerating your career progression with our graduate mentoring program.
Testimonials
Here’s what our happy graduates have to say about our services:

I began my training at Foothills Heli in October 2020 and finished in March 2021.
Thanks to the great instructors and foothills operational connections I landed a job right after I graduated.

I’m so thankful that I went to FHTA for my CHPL. The small class size makes for a personalized learning experience where everyone truly wants you to succeed. From trying out long-lining, night flying and landing on mountain tops, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience

I could not have wished for a better experience than what I had at Foothills Helicopter Training Academy. FHTA provided thorough flight training, an intimate classroom setting, competent ground/flight instructors and a friendly, supportive environment. The program provides a comprehensive, bridged version of the heavily, loaded subject of helicopter flying.

I always felt that I was a top priority to all of the instructors and staff, the environment at Foothills Helicopter Training Academy made it a breeze to get into my dream career!