How to Become a Helicopter Pilot

When people think of flying, fixed-wing aircraft usually come to mind. However, helicopters also have their place in the sky. Helicopter pilots serve in the military, serve law enforcement, provide rescue operations and work for news agencies. Many helicopter pilots were trained in the military but others took a different course.

Instructions

1. Go for a helicopter ride to make sure you enjoy it. Flying in a helicopter is very different from flying in a fixed-wing aircraft.

2. Research helicopter flight schools. Find out where they are and how much the required number of flight hours will cost.

3. Check basic eligibility requirements including age, the ability to read, speak and understand English, medical and licensing requirements.

4. Get your Private Helicopter License first. This license will require written, oral and flight tests.

5. Work toward your Commercial Rotorcraft License. This FAA certificate is required to be a professional helicopter pilot. The private license will allow you to fly but not to take paying passengers.

6. Ensure you have all required ratings. Many helicopter pilots get their Certified Flight Instructor credentials as well as instrument ratings. These credentials are not always required but may be needed for some jobs.

7. Fly the required number of hours. Getting the job often depends on having enough flight hours. Requirements vary. Flying Emergency Medical Services requires more hours than taking aerial photography.

Tips & Warnings

• Military flight training is another option. The advantages to military flight training include the reduced cost and flight hours. The drawbacks include the service commitment and danger inherent to service in the military.

• Working as a flight instructor is a common way to build up the required number of flight hours for other higher-paying jobs.

• Helicopter flight training is expensive!