Helicopter Pilot Training
There are various ways to learn how to fly a helicopter. Some people will learn as part of an armed forces career, for example, whilst others will take on helicopter pilot training as civilians. There are also various kinds of licensing involved here. For example, you could train for a:
- Private Pilot's License (PPL) which allows you to fly but not to operate as a commercial pilot where you charge. This license will give you training in flight and ground issues and you will be expected to cover a certain number of flying hours (some of which must be solo). The license also involves a flying test, a number of written tests and you will need to pass a basic medical (Class 2 CAA).
- Commercial Pilot's License (CPL) which will also allow you to charge for your piloting. You will need to already hold a PPL and a certain number of flying hours before you will be able to get this license. This license will add to the skills you gained with the previous license.
- Advanced Airline Transport Pilot's License (ATPL) which will enable you to pilot helicopters with more than one pilot/engine. This license will add to the skills you gained with the previous license(s).
You must be over 18 to fly a helicopter and when you get a license you will also have to have a check for proficiency every year.
It is important to make sure that you learn to fly a helicopter at an accredited school that is licensed for this kind of training by the CAA (Civil Aviation Authority). Many schools will offer you a trial flight to see if you want to take the course and any flying you do here may count towards your flying hours.