FAQs

Q. How long does it take to learn to fly?
A. The FAA requires a minimum of 40 hours of flight time for a private rating in a helicopter. The industry average is approximately 60 hours of flight time. All of our instruction is based 1 to 1. If you choose to fly 3 times a week, then it will certainly take you less time than if you fly only once a week.

Q. How much does it cost?
A. Using the FAA minimum requirements as a guideline, you should expect a complete private certification to cost approximately $12,000.00 This will include all required text, ground school, and applicable tests.

Q. What is an Add-on rating?
A. An add-on rating is used when the pilot already holds a pilot's license from the FAA. For example: If you have a fixed wing (airplane) rating, then you will not need to take a written test for a private helicopter rating.

Q. Will I have to take written tests?
A. If you are not completing an add-on rating, then you will need to take a written test, as well as the oral and practical test. Additionally, if you are enhancing your current rating from a private to a commercial rating, then you will be required to take a separate written test.

Q. How do I get a job flying helicopters?
A. The FAA requires that you have at least a Commercial Helicopter rating before gaining employment as a pilot. Most new commercial helicopter pilots will then go on to receive an instructor rating and begin their flying career. Due to insurance industry requirements, many companies other than flight training centers will require a minimum of 500 hours as pilot in command of a helicopter before offering employment. Don't fall for a program that guarantees you an interview with a large helicopter operation follow graduation. You may get the interview, but again, due to insurance requirements, you will most likely not get the job.

Q. Will I be able to rent helicopters?
A. All students who receive their flight training from Tropical Helicopter will be afforded an opportunity to rent specific aircraft following the issuance of their pilot rating.

Q. Are your instructors just building time?
A. Certainly not! Our instructors are not here to build time. Each of our instructors are also professional pilots. We don't want to waste your money any more than you do.

Q. Which helicopter is better to learn in, the R22 or the Hughes/Schweizer 300?
A. You may have heard that if you can fly the R22 you can fly anything. This statement is a little misleading. Ask yourself why the US military used the Hughes 300 style airframe for over 30 years. The Hughes/Schweizer 300 does not require additional endorsements such as SFAR 73 to fly. The cyclic location in the Hughes/Schweizer 300 is in the traditional configuration for helicopters, therefore, you will be more comfortable transitioning into larger, faster aircraft.