Columbia Helicopters appoints new President and CEO David Balevic

Columbia Helicopters has appointed its new President and CEO, David Balevic. Balevic has more than 35 years of aviation industry leadership. He spent eight of those years at CHC Helicopter, where he served as the Senior Vice President for Engineering and Operations before being promoted to President and CEO in August 2019. During his time at CHC, Balevic oversaw all aspects of the business, including aircraft flight operations, supply chain, and the global maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services. Further, he spent more than 20 years with GE in its aircraft engine, power, and oil and gas business units.

Kirk Konert, member of the Columbia Helicopters board, commented: “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.”

According to Konert, Balevic will contribute to the company’s growth across its three core businesses: Global Aerial Operations, MRO, and Aircraft Solutions.

Balevic stated: “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.”

A member of the AirMed&Rescue team recently discussed Columbia Helicopters’ role in the aerial firefighting sector with its former President and CEO.