There’s a new player in aviation at Canadore College.

Ottawa Aviation Services will helped train fixed wing pilots at the college to meet the growing demand in the industry.

Officials say OAS has established industry relationships with several airlines, including Transwest Air, Jazz Aviation LP, Air Georgian and Porter Airlines.

Canadore College president George Burton says the fixed wing program will enhance what’s already being offered by Essential Helicopters in terms of training at the college.

“We have our aircraft avionic programs, our maintenance programs, our structures programs, helicopter and now we have fixed wing. It’s now a more attractive site for domestic and international students,” he says.

Cedric Paillard is the CEO of Ottawa Aviation Services.

He says they are currently based in Ottawa and Cornwall and need space and Canadore has a great reputation, so this decision makes a lot of sense.

They will be delivering an airline transport license program, pointing out it’s a good time to be a pilot.

“You will be in an airline position flying a jet within 5 years of your training and probably quicker. The training is scheduled for 18 months. In 18 months you could be on the right seat of a jet,” he says.

Paillard also says they’re in need of instructors.

They’re looking to hire 5 right away and more in the future.