Born in Montreal and educated in Ontario, Paul first came to Fort McMurray in 1980 working as a helicopter mechanic to support forest fire suppression action. In 1991 he left his position as YMM base manager for Associated Helicopters and started his own company. In addition to being an accomplished helicopter pilot and AME Paul is also a fixed wing AME and pilot licensed on a wide variety of aircraft including maintenance certification for Boeing 737.
Mr. Spring has grown Phoenix Heli-Flight in step with the Oil Sands from one machine to a fleet of 10 modern Eurocopter twin and single engine helicopters. His company and employees are recognized internationally as industry leaders in safety and a premier supplier of helicopter charter services. Paul is a founding member of the Global Helicopter Flight Data Monitoring Steering Group. As an HFDM practitioner since the technology was introduced in 2007 Paul donates his time to lecture at global aviation conferences explaining the public and corporate benefits of a systematic and proactive approach to digital oversight of flight operations.
As long time community members Paul & Andrea Spring ensure that Phoenix Heli-Flight remains active in the support and fundraising activities of local charities and community groups. Paul is most proud of his 28 year relationship with the Fort McMurray Fire Department; the two organizations have worked seamlessly to save lives and deliver timely medical care to over 1,400 regional residents.