Private Pilot

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PRIVATE HELICOPTER TRAINING COURSE

Achieving your private helicopter rating is a momentous, exciting thrill. With a private pilot license, you will be able to fly a helicopter as a pilot-in-command. This course is specifically designed and intended as a starting point for new pilots that want to begin a new hobby or are planning to pursue helicopter operation as a career.

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(941) 800-1515

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

The following items are a summary of the eligibility requirements listed in 14 CFR Part 61.103 for obtaining a private pilot helicopter license:

Be at least 17 years old.
Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English.
Pass a written knowledge test.
Receive flight training.
Meet the aeronautical experience listed below.
Pass a practical test (i.e. a Checkride).
Hold a student pilot certificate, sport pilot certificate, or recreational pilot certificate.

AERONAUTICAL EXPERIENCE FOR THE HELICOPTER PRIVATE PILOT RATING

The following items are a summary of the aeronautical experience requirements listed in 14 CFR Part 61.109 for obtaining a private pilot helicopter license:

At least 40 hours of total flight time.
At least 20 hours of flight training.
At least 10 hours of solo flight time.

Helicopter Pro will help you accomplish specific flight requirements to complete, such as cross-country, night flights, and more.

LIMITATIONS OF A PRIVATE HELICOPTER RATING

While a private helicopter rating allows you to fly a chopper as a pilot-in-command, there are some limitations. While this is not a fully comprehensive list, you can review 14 CFR 61.113 and 14 CFR 61.117 for all the specific limitations related to the private pilot helicopter license:

Cannot operate as pilot in command for compensation or hire.
May not pay less than pro-rata share of expenses related to a flight.
Cannot act as a second in command that is type certificated for more than one pilot.
Cannot act as a second in command for an aircraft that is carrying passenger or property for compensation or hire.
Pilot flying helicopter

COMMON PRIVATE PILOT RATING QUESTIONS

At Helicopter Pro, we are committed to providing you with a comprehensive private pilot rating course that meets FAA requirements. Below are some common questions we receive about this course. If you still have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our qualified instructors would be happy to answer any further questions you may have.

The minimum number of flight hours for this license is 40 hours, but most people tend to complete the program and master the objectives within 60-70 flight hours. Dedicating one or two sessions per week is a minimum schedule to complete this rating within the timeframe. The better way is to fly more often so as not to lose your hard-earned skills.

Yes, a helicopter pilot with a private pilot rating can fly at night as long as the helicopter is equipped for night flights.

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