Many people watch a helicopter pass overhead and assume flying is something that only happens to other people. In practice, a civil helicopter flight course is open to anyone who meets the entry requirements, and it needs no military background or previous aviation experience. Here is the full path, step by step, so you know exactly what to expect.

Stage 1: The introductory flight

Almost everyone starts here. An introductory flight, also called pilot for a day, is a real flying lesson in a helicopter with dual controls: you hold the controls and actually fly, with a certified instructor beside you. It is the best way to find out whether the idea speaks to you before committing to a full course. With us this flight counts as the first lesson of the course, so if you continue, nothing is lost.

Stage 2: Entry requirements and the medical

Before enrolling you take an aviation medical with a doctor authorised by the Civil Aviation Authority. It mainly examines vision, hearing and general health, and most healthy people pass without difficulty. Glasses or contact lenses are not disqualifying. Basic English is also needed, since English is the language of international aviation.

Stage 3: Ground school and theory

The part most people never think about, and without it there is no licence. Ground school covers principles of flight, meteorology, navigation, aircraft structure and systems, air law and radio procedure, and concludes with the Civil Aviation Authority theory exams. You can study alongside your flying hours, and that is usually what people do.

Stage 4: Practical flying hours

The core of the course. You begin with basic manoeuvres, take off and land again and again, and learn to control the helicopter in every situation. More advanced subjects follow: navigation, cross-country flights, off-airport landings and emergency handling. The most memorable moment is the first solo, the first time you are airborne alone.

Stage 5: The licence test

At the end of the course you take a practical test with an examiner from the Civil Aviation Authority. The examiner flies with you and assesses your control of the aircraft, your radio work and your decision making in the air. Those who pass receive a private helicopter pilot licence.

How long does it take, and what about cost?

There is no single answer. The pace is up to you: some fly twice a week and finish relatively quickly, others progress more slowly alongside work and family. Cost also varies with the actual number of flight hours, the helicopter type and your rate of progress. Exact requirements and prices are updated from time to time, so the most accurate picture comes from a conversation.

The first step is always the easiest: one introductory flight is enough to know whether this is for you. Talk to us and we will explain exactly what suits you, with no obligation.