Helicopter Institute, February 04, 2026 - Fort Worth, Texas - Helicopter Institute, a provider of advanced rotorcraft training and aviation services, proudly announced it has been awarded a five-year contract under the United States Navy’s Contractor Operation and Pilot Training – Rotary (COPT-R) program.
This award marks a significant milestone in the company’s continued growth and reinforces its position as a trusted training partner for military and government aviation programs.
Under the COPT-R contract, Helicopter Institute will deliver comprehensive rotary-wing training solutions designed to enhance operational readiness, standardization, and safety across Navy aviation units.
Ashley Mikel, director of business development, said “We are honored to support the United States Navy through this long-term partnership. This award reflects our team’s unwavering commitment to excellence, our deep expertise in rotorcraft training, and our dedication to strengthening the capabilities of those who serve our nation.”
Helicopter Institute’s proven track record in delivering high-fidelity training, combined with its state-of-the-art facilities and experienced instructor cadre, positions the company to provide exceptional value throughout the duration of the contract.
The COPT-R award further expands Helicopter Institute’s footprint within the defense sector and underscores its reputation for delivering mission-ready aviators across multiple platforms.
Randy Rowles, president and founder of Helicopter Institute, said “This award represents far more than a contract win for Helicopter Institute. It reflects the United States Navy’s confidence in our people, our training philosophy, and our unwavering commitment to producing safe, standardized, and mission ready aviators. Our instructors, maintainers, and support teams take this responsibility personally. Supporting Naval aviators at this foundational stage of their careers is a no fail mission, and we are proud to continue serving alongside the men and women who defend our nation.”
About Helicopter Institute : Helicopter Institute is a family business that was established in 2009 by Randy and Samantha Rowles in an effort to provide helicopter operators and pilots an alternative to OEM/Factory aircraft transition courses. Through Helicopter Institute’s Beyond Factory Training Initiative, we maintain the highest level of professionalism and standards,
Helicopter Institute offers training solutions in a wide variety of industry aircraft. Our headquarters is located at Fort Worth Meacham International Airport (FTW).
This award marks a significant milestone in the company’s continued growth and reinforces its position as a trusted training partner for military and government aviation programs.
Under the COPT-R contract, Helicopter Institute will deliver comprehensive rotary-wing training solutions designed to enhance operational readiness, standardization, and safety across Navy aviation units.
Ashley Mikel, director of business development, said “We are honored to support the United States Navy through this long-term partnership. This award reflects our team’s unwavering commitment to excellence, our deep expertise in rotorcraft training, and our dedication to strengthening the capabilities of those who serve our nation.”
Helicopter Institute’s proven track record in delivering high-fidelity training, combined with its state-of-the-art facilities and experienced instructor cadre, positions the company to provide exceptional value throughout the duration of the contract.
The COPT-R award further expands Helicopter Institute’s footprint within the defense sector and underscores its reputation for delivering mission-ready aviators across multiple platforms.
Randy Rowles, president and founder of Helicopter Institute, said “This award represents far more than a contract win for Helicopter Institute. It reflects the United States Navy’s confidence in our people, our training philosophy, and our unwavering commitment to producing safe, standardized, and mission ready aviators. Our instructors, maintainers, and support teams take this responsibility personally. Supporting Naval aviators at this foundational stage of their careers is a no fail mission, and we are proud to continue serving alongside the men and women who defend our nation.”
About Helicopter Institute : Helicopter Institute is a family business that was established in 2009 by Randy and Samantha Rowles in an effort to provide helicopter operators and pilots an alternative to OEM/Factory aircraft transition courses. Through Helicopter Institute’s Beyond Factory Training Initiative, we maintain the highest level of professionalism and standards,
Helicopter Institute offers training solutions in a wide variety of industry aircraft. Our headquarters is located at Fort Worth Meacham International Airport (FTW).
See also |
HII
Helicopter Institute State of Texas TH-66 Sage in
US Navy Robinson TH-66 for the US Navy Pilot Training Rotary Program
Helicopters Flight School - Training Military 
