Tribute

With heavy hearts, we announce the sudden passing of James (Jim) George Johnston at the age of 78 while visiting his brothers in Oliver, BC.

Jim was born at home in Osoyoos, BC to the late Edgar and Sophie (Miller) Johnston. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Brenda (MacKenzie) Johnston, son Dave (Michelle) Johnston; daughter Carol Ann Tesfaye (Yensey & Jensen), grand daughters Rylee, Sophie and Quinn; and brothers Ronald and William Johnston. Jim was predeceased by his sister Patricia (Patsy) Johnston.

Jim proudly served in the Canadian Armed Forces as an Aircraft Technician, dedicating six and a half years of his life to the Navy while travelling the world. Jim’s passion for aviation took flight during his time in the military, where he developed a deep love for helicopters. After leaving the military, Jim went on to achieve a remarkable career in aviation earning his Private Pilot’s Licence, Commercial Fixed Wing Licence, Commercial Rotor Wing Licence and IFR rating, and Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Licence with many aircraft endorsements.

Jim built an impressive career in the aviation industry, starting at Okanagan Helicopters where he completed flight school. He later went on to work for Sealand Helicopters and Universal Helicopters. In 1987, Jim became the proud owner of Cougar Helicopters where his legacy in the helicopter industry was established through many ground-breaking achievements and aviation firsts, including the world’s lowest landing limits (600 RVR), the introduction of Precision GPS Approach, and the establishment of Nova Scotia’s first Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program and Nova Scotia’s first Civilian Search and Rescue operation. Throughout his career, Jim and his team’s commitment to safety and innovation has saved over 55 lives.

Under Jim’s leadership, Cougar Helicopters became the first aviation company in the industry to earn ISO 9002 certification. In 1995, the company was awarded the Hibernia Offshore Oil contract, operating Canada’s first Super Puma helicopters, and later, Canada’s first Sikorsky S92 de-iced helicopter fleet, which Jim played an integral role. Jim was an entrepreneur at heart and was the proud recipient of the 2001 Atlantic Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

Jim continued his aviation career as owner of Vision Air Services for the past 20 years, providing exceptional service to the many customers he had built trusted relationships with during his early days at Cougar Helicopters. Throughout the years, Jim established lifelong friendships and built a dedicated team of loyal employees, several of whom worked for him for many years and affectionately referred to him as “Jimmy”. He valued his employees deeply and gave many people their start in the aviation industry and made it a priority to ensure that everyone felt like part of his extended family.

Jim’s impact on his family, friends, and the aviation industry is immeasurable. Although Jim has gained a new set of wings, his legacy of courage, dedication, and innovation will forever be remembered. A celebration of life will be held in the spring in Oliver, BC and Halifax, NS.