Designed for the student who has little or no flight time and wishes to obtain a Private Pilot Certificate. This Certificate is similar to a driver’s license; it allows the pilot to fly for recreation with or without passengers and to share operating expenses with them, but prohibits the pilot from conducting flights for compensation or hire.

Admission Requirements

A student must be 17 years of age and be able to read, speak, write and understand English. Before solo flight, the student must hold a valid third-class medical certificate from a Federal Aviation Administration approved physician.

Length of Program

Our full time private pilot helicopter training runs approximately three months for students who plan to fly four days a week. we highy reccomend flying at least twice per week and allowing self study time as well.

Program Minimums

Varies per student based on frequency of flying.

Private Pilot Certificate / Part 61 Minimum

40 hours total flight time, including:

20 hours dual

10 hours solo

In the beginning you will take your first flight with your instructor and be introduced to the basic aerodynamics of flight and the various components of the helicopter. We will familiarize you with how to conduct a preflight and basic approach and departure procedures. Appropriate radio communication with ATC will be covered as well in preparation of your first solo flight. When you have sufficiently demonstrated that you are capable of performing the basic flight maneuvers, you will review and take your Pre Solo Written exam

Now that you have completed the SFAR73 required 20 hours of dual instruction and we know you have the skills, you will take your first solo flight! After the excitement has faded a bit, you will move on to instruction regarding aviation weather and how to interact with it. The Aeronautical Information Manual and helicopter weight-and-balance will be introduced as well. Practice of basic maneuvers will continue so as to build confidence before moving on to advanced maneuvers and off-airport operating procedures. At that point, you will have learned most of the required manuevers for your checkride.

In the final stage, you will plan and prepare for your first cross country flight followed by your first night flight. VFR charts and how to read them as well as FAA regulations will be introduced. Competent plotter utilization and radio navigation will also be demonstrated. When your instructor deems you ready, you will do the final checkride preperations and be ready for your practical exam to receive the Private Pilot Certificate.