For aviation and adventure enthusiasts, Helicopter scenic tours can be an exciting and fulfilling career choice. However, becoming a helicopter pilot requires specialized training and certification. In this article, we'll go over the steps you need to take to get into helicopter pilot school and start becoming a helicopter pilot.
Step 1: Helicopter Pilot School Research Project
The first step to becoming a Helicopter flight experience is to study in a helicopter pilot school program. Many flight schools across the country offer helicopter pilot training, so it is important to research your options and choose a reputable and accredited school. Look for a school with experienced instructors and a well-maintained helicopter fleet. You should also consider the school's location and tuition.
Step Two: Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you can enroll in helicopter pilot school, you must meet the basic requirements to become a helicopter pilot. You must be at least 17 years old, be able to read, write and speak English fluently, and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You must also pass a medical exam to make sure you are fit to fly the helicopter.
Step 3 – Obtain a Private Pilot's License
To become a Helicopter rides, you must first obtain a private pilot's license. This requires a minimum of 40 hours of flight time, including a minimum of 20 hours of flight instruction and 10 hours of solo flight. They must also pass a written and flight test conducted by a pilot examiner appointed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Step 4: Obtain a Commercial Pilot's License
After obtaining your private pilot's license, you must obtain a commercial pilot's license to fly a helicopter for a fee or charter. This requires at least 150 hours of flight time, including at least 100 hours as a captain and 50 hours cross-country. They must also pass a written exam and a flight test conducted by an FAA-designated pilot examiner.
Step Five: Attend Helicopter Pilot School
After earning your Private Aerial application services and Commercial Pilot License, you can head to Helicopter Pilot School for specialized helicopter flight training. Helicopter pilot school typically lasts several months and includes classroom instruction and flight training. You will learn advanced helicopter flight maneuvers, such as autorotation and hovering, as well as safety procedures and emergency protocols.
Step 6: Get Additional Certification
After completing helicopter pilot school, you may wish to obtain additional certifications to improve your job prospects and earning potential. For example, you might want to get a gauge rating, which will allow you to drive gauges in low visibility conditions. You may also want to earn a flight instructor certificate so you can teach others to fly helicopters.
Step 7: Gain Experience
After you earn your Helicopter pilot certification and any other certifications, you'll need to gain experience to develop your skills and find employment. You can start as a flight instructor or travel pilot. Some pilots also gain experience working in emergency medical services or law enforcement. As you gain experience, you can advance to more senior positions such as B. Marine Transport or Firefighting.