The route to becoming a helicopter pilot can take many paths. Jason Glynn’s path began when he was repairing diesel-engine generators on exploration platforms in the Gulf of Mexico and traveled by helicopter to get there. After deciding that flying helicopters was what he really wanted to do, he got a job at Era’s heliport in Port Fourchon, Louisiana, loading cargo, refueling aircraft, and washing helicopters. Six months later, while still working as a ramp hand for Era, Glynn began his flight training at Vortex Helicopters in Mississippi.
Considered an exceptional student, Glynn was offered a job as a flight instructor upon graduation, which he accepted. For 10 months he left his home in Louisiana at 4 a.m. to drive to Vortex, so his students could make the 6 a.m. flight at sunrise. Most days, he’d still be at the heliport at 10 p.m., after completing night instruction or spending extra time helping students with their studies. With some 900 hours as a flight instructor in his logbook, he became eligible to be a copilot at Era.
Era’s chief pilot was already familiar with Glynn's name, which led to a position as a copilot on a Sikorsky S-76. During his 16 years at Era, Glynn moved from an instrument-flight-rated second-in-command to visual-flight-rated captain to IFR captain. His work ethic, dedication to aviation safety, and strong desire for positive industry change drew him to management roles. Glynn has served as base lead pilot, assistant chief pilot, assistant director of operations, S-76/EC225 check airman, and operations manager. He is now ERA’s director of operations.
Said Jamie Comar, chief pilot and director of training at Era: “Jason has left an indelible mark on our industry, embodying exemplary leadership and fostering positive change and continued innovation. He’s been the go-to guy for employees and passengers alike—the lifeblood of Era and the company’s drive for aviation safety and excellence. Anyone who’s had the pleasure of working around this man remembers his name, his work ethic, and his selfless ambition.”
HAI’s Salute to Excellence Pilot of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding single feat performed by a helicopter pilot during the year or extraordinary professionalism over a period of time. Nominees must be active helicopter pilots.