Evan Van Gilson as a young boy has always been fascinated by fast and loud vehicles.  His first experience with helicopters was around the age of six years old when the New Jersey State Police landed in the parking lot of his mothers work for a community event.  He remembers saying “This thing is awesome!”  In high school he began searching eBay for experimental helicopters joking about how one day he was going to buy one, with the money he didn’t have, and learn how to fly it.  As many young adults, when Evan graduated High School he went straight into the work force which instead of flying, he went into the law enforcement industry.  About 6 years later, Evan got his second experience with the N.J. State Police helicopter, but this time he actually got to fly in it.  Evan stared out of the window and pointed out all of the areas he recognized!  He felt like he was in a different world and he LOVED IT!  Evan told everyone about it and finally started taking lessons in helicopters.  It was a tough career move to make, but in his mind he kept saying “It’s now or never.”  He decided to follow his dream and fulfill his love for flying which has since lead Evan to great places, people and experiences.  And now it has lead Evan to you, the person reading this!  Evan has worked for 8 different helicopter companies in which 3 he is still working for.  Evan currently flies aircrafts that have just 2 seats to some that seat 10 in both Helicopters and Airplanes.  Evan has held positions for 135 Charter Captain and Company Check Airman, as well as Captain Positions for Privately owned aircrafts that he is a part of managing.

Ryan Majette is a new flight instructor and a New Jersey native who completed all of his training right here at Platinum Helicopters. He also holds a foreign EASA private rotorcraft license with flight experience throughout the UK. Ryan was always fascinated by helicopters, wondering how they work, and the physics involved in how they fly. For many years helicopters remained a recurring thought in the back of his mind until this curiosity eventually got the better of him, he went on a demo flight and was instantly hooked! Ryan is thrilled to finally be in a position to share the fun of flying with students and customers.

Yves Frei is a passionate pilot who grew up in Switzerland, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes. His love for aviation began at a young age, and it was the breathtaking Swiss Alps that first sparked his dream of flying. After completing his Private Pilot License (PPL) in Switzerland, Yves traveled to Portland, Oregon, to further his training and earned his FAA certifications.  Now living and flying in the United States, Yves is committed to growing as a pilot and instructor. He is passionate about sharing the thrill of flying with students while continually improving his skills. Yves remains open to new opportunities in aviation, eager to explore where his journey will take him next.