How has Panorama Helicopters evolved since its founding?

Over time, the focus has shifted from a small mix of mining, firefighting, and hydro work to specialized long-lining and precision operations. During the past 14 years, the company has invested heavily in pilot training, safety protocols, and operational expansion – adding aircraft, pilots, and bases nationwide.

What are the company’s key drivers of demand?

Demand has surged on the strength of Panorama’s reputation for skilled, dependable crews – particularly in complex drill moves and long-line operations where precision and trust are essential. That performance has fueled repeat business and rising demand across multiple projects.

At the same time, Panorama has pushed further afield, reaching remote areas thousands of kilometers from its bases. High mineral prices have made these locations viable, with short seasonal windows and complex logistics supported by a fixed-wing partner under shared ownership. Operations also evolved during the COVID-19 period, with magnetometer-based surveys allowing continued exploration with fewer personnel. Since 2022, activity has ramped up, with multi-drill contracts – up to as many as nine rigs per site – now the norm, driving near-constant helicopter operations.

How has Panorama expanded and enhanced its fleet?

Over the years, the company has explored various aircraft models, and in the past four to five years, there has been a push to standardize the fleet. Currently, the company operates 11 aircraft, primarily focusing on the Airbus AS350 ‘AStar’ family. The BA+, a model unique to Canada, is an older version, while the B2 is considered the Canadian workhorse, having been in use for over 20 years due to its reliability and ease of maintenance. The latest addition, the B3e/H125, offers significant advancements in power and efficiency, allowing for the transport of heavier or more distant loads, such as larger drills. With its increased lifting capacity, the B3e enables the company to operate more efficiently by carrying more fuel and extending the range of operations, keeping pace with the evolving demands of the drilling industry.

What are some notable advancements in helicopter technology?

Avionics advancements have transformed utility helicopter operations, replacing traditional gauges with streamlined digital displays that reduce pilot workload and enhance situational awareness. Engine management systems now automate critical functions like turbine startup, minimizing the risk of costly errors. Newer aircraft models can offer greater lift capacity and performance, providing pilots with more power reserves and operational safety. Innovations in the B3e model represent the peak of evolution in this class, delivering both improved reliability and confidence in demanding conditions.

How do you ensure the fleet is maintained to the highest standard?

At Panorama, the care and maintenance of our fleet is central to operational success, with engineers held in equal esteem to pilots. Through our annual aircraft refurbishment program we take one aircraft from the fleet each year and completely rebuild it, as if it were brand new. The company has also embraced technology to enhance safety and efficiency, implementing a new 100% digital aircraft maintenance system, as well as application-based tools like Helitrends to monitor engine health through regular power checks and Helicloud to automate flight reporting via smartphone GPS and sensors. These innovations improve data accuracy, align maintenance with actual flight time, and streamline service delivery. 

With use of drones on the rise, what makes helicopters still an essential tool?

Drones are gaining traction for visual inspections and monitoring site development, offering useful support tools in the field. However, they remain limited compared to helicopters in both adaptability and lifting capacity. With aircraft capable of transporting heavy loads and responding to dynamic, real-time demands, helicopters continue to play an irreplaceable role. Moreover, the human connection between pilots, crews, and clients – along with the need for in-the-moment decision-making – ensures manned operations remain essential. While drones will find their niche, they are not yet a direct substitute for the flexibility and trust built into helicopter missions.

What is your outlook for the rest of 2025?

Despite a brief slowdown due to the effects of early 2025’s economic and political climate, the company is optimistic about a busy and exciting summer. There is strong demand in the mining sector, with new projects underway and ongoing work continuing. Panorama is also looking to introduce new operations and potentially expand its fleet, though specifics remain under wraps.