Leading Edge Flight Academy

Foundational ratings get you into the industry. Advanced training sets you apart once you're there. 📈

LEFA offers specialized helicopter courses in NVG (Night Vision Goggle) operations, external load, and mountain flying, all designed to build the skills that employers in utility, firefighting, EMS, and tour operations actively look for.

For pilots ready to take their training to the next level, these courses make a difference. https://flybend.com/advanced-helicopter-courses/

The Bell 206 first flew in 1966 and has been in continuous production for decades. It's one of the most widely used helicopters in the world! EMS, law enforcement, utility, tours, military—you name it. ✔️

It's also the airframe our students fly during turbine transition training. Pretty cool to learn on a helicopter that's shaped the entire industry!

Ben Loggins went from LEFA student and instructor to tours with Papillon and Blue Hawaiian, and now flies for Life Flight Network out of Aurora, Oregon. Along the way, he's logged time in the Bell 206, EC130, AStar, AW119, and EC135.

That kind of career arc starts with the right foundation. ✔️

After building foundational skills in the R22 and R44, students who pursue turbine transition step into the Bell 206 B3. It's their first taste of a turbine engine, and it introduces the systems and performance characteristics they'll see in professional operations!

The 206 has been a workhorse across every corner of the helicopter industry for decades. Getting time in this airframe during training is a real advantage.

Strong communication keeps flights safe. 🤝

Crew Resource Management (CRM) plays a critical role in aviation, especially in high-demand environments like EMS, firefighting, and commercial operations. Pilots who can communicate clearly and work as a team are better prepared for real-world challenges.

Learn more: https://flybend.com/crew-resource-management-training/

Short answer: no!

Many of our graduates are flying EMS, fire, utility, and tours without a four-year degree.

That said, pairing flight training with an academic credential can open additional doors. Through our Central Oregon Community College partnership, students can earn an Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Science while they train, and it qualifies for federal financial aid.

https://flybend.com/helicopter-degree-program/

Consistency matters in flight training. ✔️

Part 141 programs maintain centralized training records, so progress stays organized and uninterrupted, even if instructors change. That structure helps students stay on track and avoid setbacks, keeping training efficient and focused!

Every aviation career starts with a strong foundation. ✈️

Our graduates continue to build careers across tours, EMS, and beyond, carrying forward the skills, discipline, and mindset developed during training. Hard work, consistency, and strong connections open doors across the industry!

Please join us in welcoming our newest airplane instructors to the team. ✈️

Colter Edde, Justin Izett, Quintin Reid, and James Stewart bring skill, professionalism, and a shared commitment to developing the next generation of pilots. We’re excited to have them on board and look forward to the impact they’ll make in training.