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How to become a helicopter pilot
Glamorous, challenging, varied and exciting are just a few words to describe the career of a helicopter pilot. It can provide a good living. Perhaps your interest in helicopters lies solely for recreational purposes, getting a private licence, flying with friends and family. Either way, there are many good reasons for becoming a helicopter pilot.
Why should you become a helicopter pilot?
Here are just a few of the reasons people train to fly rotary wing aircraft:
- Getting your licence is a greatly fulfilling personal achievement
- It's a different way of life - how many helicopter pilots do you know?
- It can provide a rewarding, interesting career offering a great and varied life style
- It's a fascinating hobby for aircraft enthusiasts
- It is a logical development of fixed wing flying
Whatever your reasons for finding out about how to become a helicopter pilot, you've taken the first step on an amazing journey that could one day see you flying high in the skies over Gloucestershire, heli-logging on the other side of the world or even, as in the case of British grandmother Jennifer Murray, flying solo around the world in a Robinson R44!
What does it cost to train as a helicopter pilot?
Although initially costly, investing in helicopter pilot training is an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling experience to be savoured. While some people claim that it's possible to cut the cost by taking intensive courses in North America or other parts of the world, there's lots to be said for staying closer to home and enjoying some of the finest pilot training in the world right here in the UK. On top of that, the British Helicopter Advisory Board (BHAB) advises prospective students that 'training overseas can work out to be much more expensive in the long run, often because additional flying/ground training would be required upon your return to seek work in the UK'.
Becoming a helicopter pilot takes dedication
As with any pursuit in life, becoming a helicopter pilot (whether amateur or professional) requires considerable time and devotion, study and practical training, and a sizable bank balance. But in recompense, the rewards, both in the sense of achievement and, potentially in earnings and lifestyle can be considerable for those who remain focused and stick with their training through to a successful result.
Reach the goal of a private helicopter licence
The first step in your path to success is getting your private helicopter licence. Be aware that even this step requires considerable expense, so it's a good idea to research training comprehensively before you commit to a full-on course. These are some tips for great ways to learn how to become a helicopter pilot:
- Visit a respected training centre
- Read magazines, books and websites on the subject
- Take trial lessons
- Talk to an experienced helicopter pilot to get a fresh perspective on what's involved
Once you have followed these steps, your next move is to start training for your private pilot's licence (PPL). Upon completion of this, then consider further advanced training if necessary.
A Helicopter pilot - freedom fulfilled
Everything about helicopters shouts 'freedom' - their ability to go virtually anywhere, anytime, and land directly at your landing site. This same freedom will be yours to enjoy once you have completed your training. Just imagine being able to take friends and family for a trip around Gloucestershire, or further afield, in your own helicopter, or a hired one. How many people do you know who'll be doing that next weekend?
The question is: will you turn your dream into a reality or let it sink into the sands of time? Do you have what it takes to become a helicopter pilot? Only you can answer that. If so, you could find out more about how to become a helicopter pilot and reach the freedom of the skies with Helicopter Flight Training from Rise Helicopters.