Anyone who has taken part in a helicopter pilot training course appreciates the features of the exercise and why they are critical in shaping the expertise of pilots across the country. For those that are eager on the idea, they need to know some key points of information as they prepare for their own journey.
1) Consider Private vs. Commercial Licence Discrepancies
The first consideration that should be in play for people who are reviewing their options with a helicopter pilot training is recognizing the distinct difference between private and commercial types of licenses. The nature of the course and the details involved are going to differ to a high degree between the two, as there are more provisions and time requirements needed for operators that fly commercial. By reflecting on personal targets and objectives and understanding the reason behind the exercise, it will be easy to pinpoint which program is suited to their needs.
2) Talking With Other Pilots About Their Experiences
There is nothing like sitting down with an experienced pilot to see what their feedback is like regarding helicopter pilot training options. Given that they have been through this process before and remain in contact with peers who have worked through these programs, it is beneficial to pick their brain and see what kind of guidance and feedback they offer for either private or commercial flying ventures. Operators at this level appreciate the challenges involved and will want to guide people in the right direction, so opening these conversations is beneficial on a number of counts.
3) Reviewing Course Options Online
Aspiring helicopter pilots that are looking at their course options are wise to take note of online information that outlines what these outlets offer and how they are received by students who invest much time and energy in the practice. It will go into depth about the scheduling, the protocols, the flying hours, and the types of tests and assessments that will be applied before students are eligible to receive their accreditation. This is where members can read ratings and reviews as well as ask questions directly to representatives ahead of time.
4) Taking a Flight as a Passenger
How do individuals know how to approach a helicopter pilot training course if they have never even flown in a machine before? By taking an adventure as a passenger, participants realise the responsibility placed on the pilot’s shoulders and what they have to manage at any given moment. Thankfully there are plenty of travel openings across cities and tourist destinations all over the country, so this is an ideal chance to pay for a service that opens a lot of eyes to the experience.
5) Budgeting for the Cost
Depending on the provider and the course, a helicopter pilot training program will need to be budgeted for. Some of these options are listed in the tens of thousands of dollars, although there are mechanisms where they can be subsidized. In order to know what the best options are, it is helpful to budget for the activity and to survey costs to know what the individual is dealing with and what is viable from a financial point of view.
6) Investing the Time & Energy Needed
It is not just about money that dictates if someone is ready to proceed with helicopter pilot training. This is an activity that necessitates diligence, time, patience and persistence amongst other qualities. They are not attributes that everyone is willing to invest in, or it is something that informs if they are more prepared for a private course than a commercial one. Consider these demands when surveying what is possible with helicopter pilot training.
