Columbia Helicopters
Operates heavy-lift helicopters and provides aircraft maintenance services.
Company facts
- Founded
- 1957
- Employees
- 650
- Headquarters
- United States
- CEO
- David Balevic
- Type
- Private
- Funding
- Private Equity · 2019
- Subsidiaries
- Helifor
About
Columbia Helicopters is a premier global operator of heavy-lift helicopters and has been providing reliable services for over 60 years. Founded in 1957 by Wes Lematta, the company has grown to become a leader in the aviation industry with a strong commitment to safety, performance, and teamwork. Columbia is not just about flying helicopters; it encompasses creating, delivering, operating, and maintaining the world’s premier heavy-lift helicopters. The company is recognized for saving lives, protecting nations, and building industries through its diverse mission capabilities. As the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of the FAA-certified Chinook 234SP helicopter, Columbia Helicopters specializes in several critical sectors including aerial firefighting, disaster relief, military support, and infrastructure development. With a highly skilled workforce of over 200 technicians, Columbia also offers Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services that are trusted by commercial and military customers worldwide. As they prepare to launch the innovative Model 107-III and 234SP, Columbia Helicopters continually seeks to set new industry standards while upholding a legacy of operational integrity and excellence.