Columbia Helicopters (“Columbia” or the “Company”) announced that David Balevic has been appointed President & CEO, effective immediately. Balevic will succeed Michael Tremlett, who is departing the company to pursue other opportunities.

Columbia Helicopters is a global leader in the heavy and super heavy-lift helicopter sector, with a more than 60-year track record of innovation, technological firsts, and industry milestones. The Company manufactures, provides sustainment services for, and operates the Model 234, CH-47D Chinook, and Model 107-II tandem-rotor helicopters. The Company’s principal customers include the U.S. military, foreign allied militaries, U.S. and foreign civil protection agencies, and a broad range of commercial customers.

Balevic brings more than 35 years of leadership experience across the aviation industry to Columbia. He previously spent eight years at CHC Helicopter, where he served as the Senior Vice President for Engineering & Operations before being promoted to President & CEO in August 2019. During his tenure, Balevic oversaw all aspects of the business, including aircraft flight operations, supply chain, and the global MRO services. Additionally, Balevic has over two decades of experience at GE in their Aircraft Engine, Power, and Oil & Gas business units.

“On behalf of the board we are excited to welcome David to Columbia Helicopters, and look forward to working with him as we drive continued growth across our three core businesses: Global Aerial Operations, MRO, and Aircraft Solutions,” said Kirk Konert, Member of the Columbia Helicopters Board. “Dave has the ideal combination of aviation experience and leadership expertise needed to lead the Company to its next phase of growth. We would also like to thank Michael for his contributions to our success and wish him well in the next stage of his career.”

“It is an honor to be given the opportunity to lead Columbia Helicopters and to continue to build upon its longstanding reputation for safety, quality, and customer satisfaction,” said David Balevic. “Given aviation industry tailwinds and our strategic advantages, the future for the organization looks bright and I am eager to get started working with the outstanding team we have in place.”