What do I have to do to become a helicopter pilot?
For a private certificate you need a total of 40 hours flight time. That includes 20 hours of flight training with a certified flight instructor and 10 hours of solo flight training. The training must include:
(1) 3 hours of cross-
(2) 3 hours of night flight training in a helicopter including -
(i) One cross-
(ii) 10 takeoffs and landings to a full stop (with each landing involving a flight in the traffic pattern) at an airport.
(3) 3 hours of flight training in preparation for the practical test in a helicopter, which must have been performed within 60 days preceding the date of the test; and
(4) 10 hours of solo flight time in a helicopter, consisting of at least-
(i) 3 hours cross-
(ii) One solo cross-
(iii) 3 takeoffs and 3 landings to a full stop (with each landing involving a flight in the traffic pattern) at an airport with an operating control tower.
You also have to pass a computer-
Are helicopters difficult to fly?
Helicopters are challenging to fly. That is what makes them so special. You can join a very select group of people and become a helicopter pilot! Come and see us for a trial lesson. If you already hold a pilot's certificate the hours are reduced to 19 with no written exams! Any previous flying experience counts towards your certificate. Your ICAO license is good anywhere in the world.
If you are a United Kingdom citizen no conversion is required to fly ‘G’ registered helicopters with your ICAO license. You can fly helicopters as if you had a UK license. That includes night flying and abroad. See the CAA web site for details:
www.caa.co.uk/srg/licensing/faq.asp?faqid=208
Also see our Frequently asked questions at “FAQ’s”.
Dutch Country Helicopters