This program is intended for those students who may be learning to fly as a hobby, or who are planning to purchase their own helicopter. It is also the first step on the path to Commercial Pilot level.
The flight training portion of the Private Pilot Course is divided into three phases:
PHASE 1 (Pre-solo)
The object of this phase is to train you to the level where you can safely perform all the basic flight maneuvers and procedures. You will learn and practice take offs, landings, traffic patterns, and radio work. When you and your instructor are ready, it will be time for the big step -- your first solo. You will start your big day with a few traffic patterns with your flight instructor to be sure you feel comfortable. When you land, your instructor will get out and watch you repeat the maneuvers. You will pick the helicopter up to a hover, this time all on your own, and execute a few more traffic patterns before returning to your instructor a new person and ready for stage II....
PHASE II (Student Pilot)
During this phase you will develop your skills in the basic maneuvers. Between solo flights you will fly with your instructor who will introduce you to the advanced maneuvers and the principles of cross-country navigation. This is probably the most exciting part of the training, since you now get a chance to put the skills you have acquired to practical use. During this period your instructor will also teach you the techniques of night flying and mountain flying....
PHASE III (Pre-checkride)
This consists of the last few hours of dual instruction, during which your instructor assists in refining your skills in preparation for the practical test. No new maneuvers are introduced during this phase; most of the emphasis is on accuracy and judgment. This phase ends with the checkride which is given by an FAA designated examiner.
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FAA REQUIREMENTS
The bottom line of the FAA regulations is that they require a minimum of 40 hours of flight training, as well as a passing grade on a written examination. Due to the volume of knowledge and the level of skill required, very few students are ready to take the test at that stage. A more realistic estimate is 44 hours, and we have based our prices on this figure.
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GROUND SCHOOL
All students must pass the FAA written examination. As preparation for this test, and for the oral portion of the checkride, we offer an intensive, well structured 120-hour Rotorcraft Ground School. In addition you will also receive one-on-one ground instruction with your flight instructor. If you already hold a Private Pilot (Airplane) Certificate, you will not have to take another written test for helicopters.
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MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS
Prior to your first solo flight you must obtain a Class III Medical Certificate. Your instructor will assist you in finding an appropriately-certified physician to administer the necessary examination.
