HALO's very first pilot who flew several life-saving missions from 2007 to 2023, Grant Fletcher, has passed away. Fletcher was honoured over social media on Monday.--HANDOUT PHOTO
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Grant Fletcher, who piloted HALO’s very first life-saving mission in 2007 and continued his career until his retirement in 2023, has passed away.
On Monday over social media HALO Air Ambulance honoured Fletcher, who throughout his career flew numerous missions throughout the region.
“He carried out his duties as a helicopter pilot with unmatched professionalism, skill and grace,” reads the tribute. “As a medi-vac pilot, he flew with urgency, clarity and a heart full of compassion.”
Fletcher first flew HALO’s original Bell 206L aircraft that was used for more than a decade and could carry up to five passengers, including the patient and medical personnel.
In the summer of 2018, Fletcher helmed the controls of the upgraded BK117 aircraft when HALO transitioned to the twin-engine helicopter that provided significant range to HALO’s operations in the region.
According to the online tribute, Fletcher was known by dispatchers, paramedics and first responders for his extraordinary flying skills and his deep knowledge of the land and its people.
“While GPS co-ordinates were still being calculated, Grant would ask, “Who’s place is it?” More often than not, he already knew the way. His ability to navigate rural southern Alberta was not just remarkable; it was instinctive.”
Last year, the air ambulance service honoured Fletcher’s legacy and lasting impact on HALO by retaining its hangar after its first pilot.
“Grant will always be remembered as more than a pilot. He was a mentor, a cornerstone of our mission and a true cowboy of the sky.”