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What type of training do you provide?

At Helipad, we specialise in comprehensive helicopter flight training, offering everything from introductory flights for beginners to advanced piloting courses. Our programs are designed for students with various goals, whether you’re aiming for a private pilot’s licence for personal enjoyment, or a commercial pilot’s licence to advance your career in aviation. Our fleet, including the Cabri G2, one of the most advanced training helicopters, ensures that you’re learning in the safest and most modern environment possible.

How do I get started with helicopter training?

The first step to becoming a helicopter pilot is to book an introductory flight with us. This is a hands-on experience where you’ll sit in the cockpit with one of our certified instructors and take control of the helicopter under their guidance. This flight gives you a taste of what flying is like helping you decide if helicopter training is the right path for you. From there, we’ll work with you to map out a personalised training plan based on your availability and goals.

How long does it take to become a helicopter pilot?

The timeline to become a qualified helicopter pilot depends on the type of licence you’re pursuing and your availability for training. For a private pilot’s licence (PPL-H), you’ll need a minimum of 50 hours of flight training, while a commercial pilot’s licence (CPL-H) requires a minimum of 105 hours. On average, students can achieve their PPL-H within 6 to 12 months, depending on how frequently they can train. For CPL-H, it may take around 12 to 18 months. We work with your schedule to ensure a steady progression through the training.

What is the cost of helicopter training?

Helicopter training is an investment in your future, and the total cost varies depending on your goals. For example, obtaining a private pilot’s licence generally costs between $30,000 to $50,000, depending on how many hours you need to complete your training. The cost for a commercial licence typically ranges from $70,000 to $90,000. These costs include both the flight hours and ground training. We offer tailored payment plans to make the process more accessible and are happy to discuss options that fit your budget.

Can I train part-time or do I need to commit to full-time?

We understand that many of our students have jobs or other commitments, so we offer flexible training schedules. You can choose to train part-time or full-time, depending on what works best for you. Part-time training allows you to fly on weekends or during your free time, while full-time students may complete their licences more quickly by training several days a week. Our team will help you create a training plan that balances your existing commitments while ensuring consistent progress towards your licence.

What aircraft do you use for training?

We pride ourselves on using the Cabri G2, a state-of-the-art helicopter known for its safety features, stability, and modern technology. The Cabri G2 is the perfect training helicopter, especially for new pilots, due to its easy handling and advanced avionics. This allows our students to learn with confidence while gaining experience in an aircraft that’s highly regarded throughout the industry. As you progress in your training, we also offer opportunities to fly other types of helicopters to broaden your experience.

Do I need any prior experience to start training?

No previous flying experience is necessary to begin your helicopter training. Our programs are designed to take you from complete beginner to a fully qualified pilot. If you’ve never been in a helicopter before, we recommend starting with an introductory flight where you can experience the thrill of flying and get a sense of what to expect during your training. We’ll guide you through every step of the journey, ensuring you have all the support and knowledge you need to succeed.

What is the difference between a private pilot’s licence (PPL-H) and a commercial pilot’s licence (CPL-H)?

A private pilot’s licence (PPL-H) allows you to fly helicopters for personal use, but you cannot be paid for your services. It’s a great option if you’re looking to fly for recreation, take friends and family for scenic flights, or even use a helicopter as part of your own business operations. On the other hand, a commercial pilot’s licence (CPL-H) qualifies you to work as a professional helicopter pilot. With a CPL-H, you can be paid for flying in roles such as tourism, emergency services, aerial photography, or corporate transportation.

What career opportunities are available for helicopter pilots?

As a helicopter pilot, your career options are vast and varied. With a commercial pilot’s licence, you can work in industries such as tourism, charter services, search and rescue, medical evacuation (Medivac), firefighting, aerial surveying, and corporate transportation. If you have a passion for teaching, you could also become a flight instructor and pass on your skills to the next generation of pilots. The aviation industry is always in demand for skilled pilots, and we’ll help you explore the best path for your career goals.

How do I know if helicopter flying is for me?

Flying a helicopter is an exhilarating experience, but it’s important to make sure it’s something you’re truly passionate about. We recommend starting with an introductory flight to give you a feel for what’s involved. During this session, you’ll be able to ask questions, take control of the helicopter, and get a sense of whether the challenges and rewards of piloting are right for you. Our instructors are here to support you throughout this process, providing insights into the commitment, discipline, and thrill that come with learning to fly.

These answers offer a more detailed explanation of what you can expect from your training journey with Helipad, catering both to students curious about flying and business owners exploring new aviation opportunities. Feel free to reach out if you have any further questions or would like to take the first step towards flying!