How to Get a Helicopter Pilot License
Unlike airplanes, helicopters do not need to land at airports. Instead, highly-skilled aviators use helicopters' inherent maneuverability to land the aircraft on such small, tight spaces as helipads, hospital roofs or parking lots. These pilots operate helicopters in a variety of settings, including urban areas, forests, countrysides and open ocean. Helicopter pilots may fly for pleasure, or begin a career in fields like medical evacuation, firefighting, news video or law enforcement. You can earn a private pilot's license for helicopters in a few simple steps.
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Instructions
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Go to a licensed and certified aviation medical examiner for a third-class pilot physical. In order to pass the physical, you should have at least 20-30 vision, be in good mental health and be free of conditions like cancer, heart disease and epilepsy. The medical examiner will issue you a third-class medical certificate and a student pilot certificate when you pass the physical.
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Visit helicopter flight schools. Although helicopter flight schools are comparatively rare, you can find them in or near most major cities. Interview flight instructors and program managers about training equipment, curriculum, safety and price.
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Select a flight school at which to begin training. You will need to present your instructor with your medical certificate, student pilot certificate and your passport or birth certificate.
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Complete helicopter flight training. According to Copters, you need to complete at least 20 hours of dual flight (with an instructor) and 20 hours of solo flight in order to earn your license.
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Pass the helicopter private pilot written exam. Your instructor will inform you of the closest examination. You need to score at least 70 percent on the exam to pass.
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Pass the helicopter private pilot practical test, also known as a "checkride." You will take this test with a Federal Aviation Administration-authorized pilot examiner. You will need to demonstrate satisfactory aviation knowledge and helicopter flight skills in order to pass.
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