Quite like the fixed-wing (airplane) flight training, helicopter flight training is truly electrifying. It is far more exigent in certain ways compared to fixed-wing training. However, it is undeniable that helicopter flight training can be highly expensive. Usually such a flight training course can cost around $20000 to $45000. As there is a good amount of investment involved, you must be dedicated enough to achieve success.
Helicopter flight training can take 3-7 months with a 5 days-a-week training. After completing the course, you would have your license. There are two options – you obtain either a Private License or a Commercial Helicopter License to fly a helicopter. You must pursue the flying career seriously.
Now, for those of you who are hesitant and apprehensive about the training, you can take on the introductory flight lesson. Such courses are reasonably priced and they promise you excellent helicopter flight training experience. Before enrolling with a flight training program, you must examine the facilities.
Another major consideration is to check whether the helicopter school is FAA certified or not. Since a school with FAA-certification would ensure a higher level of instruction and even some hours of helicopter flight training to achieve a helicopter pilot’s certificate.
The process of helicopter flight certification requires you to pass an oral exam, a written exam as well as a flight test. Although it is not obligatory to have an experience of flying a plane before, yet some pilots recommend that you should have knowledge about the aviation conditions before going ahead with the helicopter training.
In certain flight schools, as a full-time student, you may require nearly 9 months to complete your helicopter flight training and as a part-time student, the time for completion depends on the number hours you devote to flying and studying.
Important Factors
Here are some of the important things you need to consider before enrolling into a helicopter flight training:
- The first thing is always the cost. As you know that helicopter flight training involves costly machines and is quite expensive, you should be prepared to pay. It is a long-term engagement so you should have enough resources to sustain
- Another crucial issue is searching and selecting flight training school that is appropriate for you. Consider the cost, the programs offered, and proximity to your place. However, you must also assess the school based on safety record, maintenance capability and pilot management.
- In order to fly, you must have a flight medical certificate, as you will not be allowed to fly without it.