How to Become a Helicopter Pilot

In our very first podcast episode, we’re diving headfirst into one of the most common questions we get: “How do I become a helicopter pilot?” Whether you’re dreaming of taking to the skies for fun or turning your passion into a career, this episode is packed with insights to help you get started.

You can watch the entire episode on YouTube or listen to the audio version on your favorite podcast player here or just search for “Helicopter Training Podcast” in your favorite podcast player.

In our very first episode, we take a deep dive into the journey of becoming a helicopter pilot, breaking down everything you need to know to get started. We begin by discussing the challenges and rewards of this exciting career path, including the physical, mental, and financial demands. From there, we explore the basic requirements, such as age, education, and medical qualifications, and address common questions like whether you need to be a U.S. citizen to pursue your dream.

We outline the entire training pathway step by step, starting with earning your private pilot certificate and progressing through advanced certifications like the instrument rating, commercial pilot license, and flight instructor certifications (CFI and CFII). Along the way, we tackle practical considerations like whether it’s better to train on airplanes before transitioning to helicopters, how to choose between Part 61 and Part 141 flight schools, and the factors to consider when selecting the right helicopter and flight school for your goals.

A significant part of the discussion focuses on funding your flight training, including how to utilize VA benefits to cover the cost of your training if you’re a veteran. We also explore additional options such as scholarships, grants, and loans, ensuring there’s a path for anyone determined to pursue their dream of becoming a helicopter pilot. To help you prepare for success, we discuss what you can study on your own, the essential pilot supplies you’ll need, and the steps you can take to choose a reputable flight school.

The episode wraps up with actionable advice for taking the next steps and resources to help you on your journey to the skies. If you’re dreaming of becoming a helicopter pilot or are already on your way, this episode is your ultimate guide to navigating the path ahead.

Thank you for checking out Episode 001! If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe, share it with your friends, and leave us a review. Your support means the world as we lift off on this podcast journey.

What’s Coming Next?

In the next episode, we’ll dive into the art of hovering. We’ll cover everything from control inputs and aerodynamics to why it can be such a challenging skill to master. You’ll also hear tips for students at all levels to improve their hovering skills and build confidence, as well as advice for instructors on how to effectively teach this essential maneuver.

So, if you have a question or thought on this topic, send us a message or record voice feedback for the show—we’d love to feature your input in the episode!

More Info

Here are all the links referenced in this episode:

• FAA English Language Standards
• AOPA BasicMed
• FAA Medical Classes
• Find an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)
• Part 67 Medical Standards
• FAA Pilot Statistics
• Helicopter ACS Videos
• TSA Flight Training Security Program (FTSP)
• FAA list of Aviation Scholarships
• AOPA list of Aviation Scholarships
• EAA list of Aviation Scholarships
• Whirly Girls Aviation Scholarships
• SFAR 73 Training Video
• SFAR 73 Quiz (FAA WINGS)
• Student Discovers Fire at Night
• Light Gun Video
• Guimbal Cabri G2 Helicopter Video
• Enstrom Helicopter Video
• Helicopter Flying Handbook
• Pilot Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
• Aviation News Talk Podcast Color Blindness Details
• Robinson Instructor Course
• Kenny’s Checkride Fail Video
• Dauntless Prepware Discount Link
• Helicopter Online Ground School (H.O.G.S.) 10% Discount use “HTV10” at Checkout
• Free Private Pilot 101 by Kenny Keller
• Book a Discovery Flight
• HTV Recommended Books
• HTV Essential Pilot Supplies
• Support & Contact the Podcast

Check these out for more information and resources to help you along your journey.

Feedback

We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re just starting out or well into your journey, send us your questions, feedback, or thoughts. You can reach out through the contact form or even record an audio message—we might feature your input in a future episode!