Welcome to another edition of Clark Aircraft Finance Magazine, where we bring you insights from industry leaders who are shaping the future of aviation. In this issue, we had the pleasure of speaking with Glenn Graham, founder of Graham Aviation Consulting.

With over three decades in the aviation industry, Glenn’s journey took him from fighting forest fires in Northern Ontario to becoming a respected figure in helicopter operations, training, and consulting. Today, he’s known for his hands-on expertise and his ability to help clients navigate complex regulatory landscapes, manage fleet investments, and ensure safe, efficient operations. Join us as we dive into Glenn’s unique perspective on aviation, the evolving industry, and his mission to make aviation more accessible and seamless for his clients.

Q: Could you share a bit about your journey in aviation and what inspired you to establish Graham Aviation Consulting?

My aviation career began 34 years ago, following a decade fighting forest fires across Northern Ontario and abroad with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. I had been on the ground for years, often dropped into difficult terrains. Eventually, I wanted to be the one in the cockpit, so I attended Canadore College, earned my Commercial Helicopter License, and dove into the world of aviation. My career started with a lot of forest fire flying, as planned, but quickly expanded. Over the years, I’ve held numerous operational and management roles—Operations Manager, Chief Pilot, Aircraft Check Pilot, and Class One Flight Instructor, to name a few.

Starting Graham Aviation Consulting was initially part of my plan to scale down. I thought I could share my knowledge part-time, but demand quickly grew. Clients kept coming to me with challenging situations, and I realized how much more I could offer. I live by the motto, “no challenge is too great and every problem can be solved,” so with each new client call, our services expanded. What started as a small operation is now a full-scale consulting firm, offering everything from compliance support to fleet investment guidance.

Q: The aviation industry has experienced substantial shifts over the years. What major changes are you seeing now, and how do you help clients navigate these developments?

One of the biggest changes has been within Transport Canada’s approach. Previously, a Transport Canada audit might take three inspectors a week or two, depending on the company’s size. Now, the focus is on Program Validation Inspections (PVIs), where it’s the operator’s responsibility to prove compliance, typically with only one or two inspectors reviewing over a day or two.

Another shift is the application process for new commercial air services. It used to be that inspectors were more hands-on, guiding applicants through manuals and requirements. Now, applicants are largely left to figure it out themselves. I’ve been involved in numerous PVIs and AOC applications, so I know these processes inside out. I work closely with clients, either coaching them through the requirements or handling the entire process on their behalf, which takes a tremendous amount of pressure off their shoulders.

Q: For someone looking into their first fleet investment or private aircraft, what key considerations do you walk them through to ensure they make the best choice for their needs?

Aside from budget, the biggest factor to consider is the mission profile: what will the aircraft primarily be used for? Whether it’s a private owner or a commercial operator, I help clients weigh every aspect of an aircraft’s capabilities and performance, ensuring it aligns with their needs and long-term goals. Drawing on my experience as a commercial pilot and Class One Flight Instructor, I guide them to the right choice that will serve them safely and effectively. Most first-time buyers will own more than one aircraft over their lifetime, and my role is to make sure each decision builds a solid foundation for a rewarding aviation journey.

Q: Helicopters come with unique operational and maintenance demands. What advice do you give clients interested in helicopter ownership, especially around managing costs and meeting regulatory requirements?

For any helicopter owner, partnering with a reputable, well-established Aircraft Maintenance Organization (AMO) is essential. A quality AMO can help manage costs by optimizing inspection schedules, sourcing parts (both new and used), and advising on regulatory requirements. This relationship is crucial to keeping maintenance costs under control and ensuring that all regulatory standards are met without unnecessary expenses. For my clients, this peace of mind is invaluable.

Q: Can you share one of your favorite client success stories with us—perhaps a project where your approach made a meaningful difference?

One memorable project involved a client whose Air Operator Certificate was at risk of suspension due to unforeseen circumstances. I was already managing another commercial air service, which limited my availability for official roles. However, my solid rapport with Transport Canada and the reputation of Graham Aviation Consulting allowed me to temporarily hold multiple management positions across both companies—a rare exception permitted by the inspectors due to the urgency and our longstanding relationship.

This interim solution gave us the breathing room to stabilize the company and fulfill the regulatory requirements, ultimately preserving the client’s certificate. Nine years later, the company is still operating smoothly. This experience underscored the importance of strong industry relationships and maintaining a proactive, adaptable approach to every challenge.

Wrapping it Up

Glenn Graham’s dedication to aviation, from firefighting to full-spectrum consulting, is evident in every aspect of his work. At Graham Aviation Consulting, he combines hands-on experience, regulatory expertise, and a genuine passion for solving complex challenges. Whether you’re new to aviation or a seasoned operator, Glenn’s client-centered approach offers invaluable guidance and support through each stage of the aviation journey.

To learn more about how Graham Aviation Consulting can assist you with your aviation needs, contact Glenn Graham at glenn@grahamaviationconsulting.com or visit grahamaviationconsulting.com / grahamaviationsales.com.

About Glenn Graham

With over 30 years’ experience, Glenn has worked for various aviation companies big and small. He has held management positions from Chief Pilot to Operations Manager, liaising with Government Officials from Transport Canada and the Canadian Transportation Agency. Glenn holds many aircraft type ratings with his Commercial Helicopter Licence and is a current Class One Flight Instructor. When you have been around long enough to remember flying before GPS was invented, you pretty much have experienced it all.