Turbine Helicopter Training
Learning to operate a turbine helicopter is an essential part of most professional pilots' training. Many pilots pursuing aviation careers--such as in emergency services--must first learn how to fly turbine helicopters by completing a transitioning course.
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Requirements
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The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has no specific requirements for pilots of turbine helicopters. However, pilots should hold at least a private pilot's license (PPL-H) before proceeding to turbine transition training.
Equipment
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Turbine transition training can be accomplished in any turbine-powered helicopter. The Bell Jet Ranger series is very popular.
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Location
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Most flight academies offer turbine transition training. Training can be conducted as part of the program for a pilot's license, or as an add-on education program. Working pilots can also receive transition training from their employers.
Timeframe
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Turbine transition training generally requires at least 10 hours of ground school classes, plus an additional 10 hours of in-flight training. These time frames vary depending on a pilot's aptitude and experience.
Cost
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Turbine helicopters are more expensive to run than piston-engine aircraft. The majority of the cost of turbine training encompasses the turbine helicopter's rental, which runs approximately $1,000 per hour. The full turbine training program, including ground schools, costs approximately $10,000.
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References
- Photo Credit helicopter image by Jim Dubois from Fotolia.com
