How long does it take to get a helicopter license?

how long does it take to get helicopter license

It’s so exciting that you’re embarking on your mission to become a helicopter pilot. We’re here to support you every step of the way on your new adventure. In this article, we’re answering the question – how long does it take to get a helicopter license?

Helicopter pilot training

Before you begin your helicopter pilot training, you’ll need a good idea of what’s involved in the process. Helicopter flying is a very important career; therefore, there is a lot of training involved in becoming an official helicopter pilot.

You might be wondering, what’s involved in helicopter flight training? This depends on the type of helicopter pilot license you choose to seek. There are many different licenses to accommodate the various pilots.

At HeliSpeed, we provide training for a number of helicopter licenses, including:

  • Private Pilot Licenses
  • Commercial Pilot Licenses
  • Airline Transport Pilot Licenses

When selecting flight training services, you must ensure that the company is recognised by a relevant industry body. We are recognised by the UK CAA and the EASA, allowing us to provide helicopter training to the highest standard.

Helicopter license

How to apply for a helicopter license

Applying for a helicopter license couldn’t be easier with HeliSpeed. All you have to do is find your perfect training course on our website and hit apply now.

Don’t panic if you’re still not sure it’s the right career for you. Instead, get in touch with us to book Blackpool flying lessons.

Once we’ve reviewed your flight training application, we’ll be in touch for a phone interview or computer-based training. Providing that you are successful at this stage, you’ll have a medical assessment.

The last step involves us organising a start date for your course. How exciting, we bet you can’t wait to start learning.

We’re passionate about supporting aspiring pilots at all stages of their careers. We even offer advanced training courses and refresher courses for those who haven’t flown for a while.

If you can’t find your ideal training course, let us know. We’re keen to support everyone and may be able to have the course approved for you. The minimum age for flying helicopters is 17, so you must meet this requirement when attaining a private pilot helicopter license.

How long does it take to get a helicopter license?

The time it takes to secure your helicopter license depends on the type of training you choose to pursue.

Private Pilot License (PPL): The private pilot helicopter license can take between 6 and 12 months to complete, depending on your training frequency. You must have a minimum of 45 flight hours. 25 of these hours must be completed as dual flight instruction, and 10 more hours must be completed as supervised solo flight time. These are the helicopter training guidelines for an individual with no prior experience.

Commercial Pilot License (CPL): To gain a Commercial helicopter license, you must already hold a private helicopter license. The Commercial Pilot training course involves 650 hours of theoretical training and an additional 20 hours for Multi Crew Co-Operation (MCC). For practical training, you must complete at least 135 flight hours, which covers a range of tests. Completing this qualification and receiving your commercial helicopter pilot certificate can take around 18 – 24 months.

Airline Transport Pilot License: To complete this qualification, you must have a commercial pilot certificate and license and have passed theoretical knowledge tests covering a range of topics. Following this, you will be required to complete at least 1000 flight hours for the practical aspect.

Training to fly helicopters is a big commitment. You can follow your dreams and start a new career with hard work and a dedicated training team.

You should be aware that these flight hours are minimum hours, so if things take you longer, it doesn’t mean that you’re not doing a good job. Learning to fly should be an enjoyable experience. The most important takeaway is that you feel confident keeping yourself and others safe in the sky.

helicopter training

Helicopter license cost

How much your helicopter license will cost is a tricky question to answer. Each license has its own fees and requirements. The cost will also vary depending on how many hours of training you intend to complete.

We understand that cost is a significant aspect of your helicopter training, so our friendly team is always happy to offer honest advice before you sign up for a course of flying lessons in Blackpool.

Why become a helicopter pilot?

There are many fantastic reasons for becoming a helicopter pilot in the UK. Many choose this exciting path straight from school, and others decide they fancy a career change later in life.

Whichever path you choose, our helicopter lessons in Lancashire will provide you with all of the theoretical and practical knowledge you need to become a successful pilot.

Excitement

Being a helicopter pilot is such an exciting career to embark on! It gives you a lot of freedom to travel and explore wherever you want to around the world. Once you’ve got your license, you can get flying!

There’s also the excitement of not knowing what’s next in your career; many pilots love this aspect. There are so many industries you could work in; which one will you choose?

Always in demand

Helicopter pilots are always in demand, so you’re never far away from an exciting job opportunity. Upon qualifying as a helicopter pilot, you can join our extensive list of pilots and be selected for jobs worldwide. Find out more about HeliTrax.

helicopter pilot training

Office in the sky

Being a helicopter pilot means your office in the sky has a seriously cool view! You’ll never get bored of the same four walls with so many places to explore.

Following your passion

There’s nothing better than doing a job that you feel passionate about. If flying is your passion, then a helicopter pilot is definitely a career to consider. Doing a job that you love has a really positive impact on your life. Not sure if you love flying yet? Why not try one of our helicopter rides in Blackpool?

Helicopter pilot salary UK

Helicopter pilot salaries vary widely based on your level of experience. On average, you can expect to earn around £29,000 per year in the beginning. As your experience increases, your salary can too.

Why choose our flight school?

Our flight school and highly skilled flight instructors can take your training to the next level. You will be assigned a certified flight instructor to support you with each written test and practical test. We’ll also assist you with gaining employment following your qualification.

Whether you undertake full-time training or spread out the hours to suit your lifestyle, our flight training instructors will support you. We aim to work with passionate individuals who complete the appropriate hours of flight training to become a safer pilot.

We’re a team of flying enthusiasts that love teaching aspiring pilots to fly helicopters and reach their true potential.

We hope this article has been helpful and that you know a little more about getting your helicopter license. Please get in touch with us if you have any questions regarding your helicopter training; we’re always happy to offer support and guidance.