Lead Mount Cook base operations and safety culture for aerial work pilots

Lead Helicopter Pilot – Mount Cook Skiplanes and Helicopters, Aoraki Mount Cook, NZ

Mount Cook Ski Planes & Helicopters have an exceptional opportunity for an experienced and respected aviation professional to step into a Lead Base Pilot position in one of New Zealand's most dynamic alpine environments.

This is a senior role suited to a mature, career-focused pilot seeking long-term stability, leadership responsibility, and the opportunity to shape and support a high-performing operation.

Based at Mount Cook Aerodrome, you will lead day-to-day flying operations at base level, setting the standard for professionalism, safety, and operational excellence across the pilot group.

About the role

Operating a fleet of AS350 and EC130 helicopters, with a strong focus on tourism, our operations include:

  • Scenic flights with glacier landings
  • Heli-hiking and climbing support
  • Aerial work including long-lining
  • Charter, filming and photography

As Lead Base Pilot, your responsibilities will extend beyond flying to include:

  • Providing strong, visible leadership to the pilot team
  • Mentoring and developing line pilots
  • Acting as the key pilot liaison with external stakeholders
  • Relevant experience around NZ CAA regulatory compliance and working within a mature aviation Safety Management System.
  • Operational planning, rostering and continuous improvement
  • Promoting a professional, safety-first culture across all operations

You will play a critical role in maintaining operational standards while fostering a positive, cohesive team environment.

About you

You are an experienced helicopter pilot with a calm, professional approach and a reputation for sound judgement. You bring a leadership mindset and take pride in supporting others to succeed.

You will demonstrate:

  • Strong leadership and mentoring capability
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Confidence engaging with industry stakeholders
  • A high level of professionalism and personal presentation
  • The ability to make sound decisions in a dynamic operational environment
  • A long-term commitment to the role and location

Minimum requirements

  • CAA NZ CPL(H)
  • Current Class 1 Medical
  • 3000+ hours total time (guideline, experience-dependent)
  • Significant AS350/H130 experience
  • Proven mountain flying and alpine landing experience
  • Demonstrated operational maturity and decision-making capability

Highly desirable

  • Instructors rating
  • Previous experience in the Aoraki / Westland National Parks or similar environment
  • Prior leadership or senior pilot experience
  • Experience with long-line and external load operations
  • Exposure to audit, compliance, or SMS processes

About the INFLITE Group

We are part of the INFLITE Group—an organisation committed to excellence and recognised as a leader in New Zealand's tourism industry. With continued growth and investment across multiple bases, we offer long-term career opportunities within a stable and forward-looking business.

Our brands include Heletranz Helicopters, Mount Cook Ski Planes & Helicopters, Nelson Tasman Air, and Skydive operations across the South Island.

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