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The Private Pilot rating is intended for the student who wishes to fly as a weekend hobbyist, is interested in becoming a commercial helicopter pilot, or is considering buying a helicopter of their own. With a private pilot license, you are allowed to take friends, family, or co-workers in a helicopter you rent or own. It is the first step on the path to the commercial pilot level. As a private pilot you are not allowed to accept compensation for flights.
Prerequisites
Be at least 17 years of age.
Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language.
Steps to get a Private Pilot Certificate
Take a physical from an FAA certified examiner receiving a 1st Class, 2nd Class or 3rd Class Medical Certificate. To be eligible for your Private Pilot Certificate, you are required to have a 3rd Class Medical. Your student pilot certificate is located on the back of your medical certificate; they are on the same sheet of paper.
Pass a written knowledge test to FAA standards (we will help you with the training and knowledge for this).
Fulfill the minimum requirements of flight time and ground training specified by the FAA (see below).
Pass an oral, and flight test (Practical test) given by the FAA or an approved Designated Pilot Examiner.
Part 61 Requirements:
Dual: 20 hours of flight training in a helicopter with an instructor on the Private Pilot areas of operation that includes:
3 hours of cross-country flight training in a helicopter
3 hours of night flight training in a helicopter that includes at least:
1 cross-country flight of over 50 nautical miles total distance; and
10 takeoffs and 10 landings with each landing involving a flight in the traffic pattern
3 hours of flight training in a helicopter within the preceding 60 days prior to the practical test.
Solo: 10 hours of solo flying in a helicopter on the Private Pilot areas of operation, that includes:
3 hours cross-country time;
1 solo cross-country flight of at least 100 nautical miles total distance with 3 points and one segment of at least 25 nautical miles between the takeoff and landing; and
3 takeoffs and landings at a controlled airport.
Cost Breakdown (based on FAA Minimums)
Schweizer 300C rental: 40 hours @$285/hr: $11,400
Dual Flight Instruction: 30 hours @$40/hr: $1,200
FAA Medical Exam: $150
Books and Supplies: $150-$200
FAA Written Test: $150
FAA Examiner Fee: $600
Total Cost (based on FAA Minimums): $13,750
Note: Our prices are subject to change without prior notice. The Private Pilot Rotorcraft course is structured and based on FAA minimum requirements. It is not guaranteed you will complete the training in the minimum number of hours.