Why Become a Helicopter Pilot?
Helicopter pilots are in demand, from EMS to tours to firefighting.
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Start Your Commercial Helicopter Career
Becoming a helicopter pilot can easily lead to a very rewarding and lucrative career. (Not to mention you sound cool at parties) One big positive about working in the aviation field, is that when applying for jobs hours in the aircraft are what they look at most. If you're a high schooler looking to work something other than retail when you graduate, this is the job for you! Additionally, if college isn't your thing, helicopter pilot training is definitely a career for you.
You can start logging hours as soon as you hit high school. You have to be 16 to solo, 17 to take your private check-ride, and 18 to take your commercial check-ride.
Cost of getting your CFI vs College
The average cost of getting a college degree in the United States, including books and supplies, is $35, 551 A YEAR. This means a 4-year degree costs about $142,000. Most careers that require a college degree can take years to pay for itself. At TruFlight we chose our helicopter (Guimbal's Cabri G2) specifically to save our students as much money as possible in the safest, easiest to transition, training helicopter available.
Bottom line, including the cost of your FAA Exams (3), check rides (3), flight hours (150hrs), and ground school time (about 100hrs) TruFlight Academy can get you to your CFI for approximately half the cost of a college degree. Helicopter pilots are in high demand, once you have your commercial certificate, finding a job is easy.
Why Choose
TruFlight Academy
Professional CFIs
High hour pilots define our team, with 700+ hours and many over 1,000, ensuring you train with consistent, experienced instructors who love to teach.
Modern Cabri G2 Helicopters
We use modern Cabri G2 helicopters for training, ensuring a safe and effective learning experience.
Flexible Training Options
We offer flexible training options, including on-site student housing and mobile training at private airports or residences.
Helicopter Rentals
We offer helicopter rentals for those looking to gain more flight experience or for personal use.
External Load Instruction
Our external load instruction prepares you for specialized flying tasks, enhancing your skill set.
Discovery Flights
We offer discovery flights for those interested in experiencing the thrill of flying a helicopter.
Career Opportunities
What Jobs Can You Get?
01
Agricultural Spraying
Helicopter pilots play a crucial role in modern agriculture by providing aerial spraying services. This method allows for efficient and precise application of fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides over large areas, helping to protect crops and improve yields while minimizing environmental impact.
02
Cherry Drying
In regions where cherry drying is essential, helicopter pilots assist in the process by providing aerial support. They help transport cherries to drying facilities quickly and efficiently, ensuring that the fruit maintains its quality and freshness during the drying process.
03
Powerline Surveying
Helicopter pilots conduct powerline surveying to inspect and maintain electrical infrastructure. By flying along powerlines, they can identify potential issues such as damage, vegetation encroachment, or other hazards that could lead to outages or safety concerns. This aerial perspective allows for quicker assessments and more effective maintenance planning.
04
Helicopter Tours
Helicopter pilots offer scenic tours, providing passengers with breathtaking aerial views of landscapes, cityscapes, and natural wonders. These tours are popular among tourists and locals alike, offering a unique perspective and unforgettable experience from the sky.
05
Oil Rig Transport
Helicopter pilots are essential for transporting personnel and equipment to and from offshore oil rigs. Given the remote locations of these rigs, helicopters provide a fast and efficient means of travel, ensuring that operations run smoothly and safely while minimizing downtime.
06
EMS/LifeFlight Pilot
Helicopter pilots in EMS/LifeFlight roles are trained to provide rapid medical transport for critically ill or injured patients. They work closely with medical teams to ensure safe and efficient air ambulance services, often operating in challenging conditions to deliver life-saving care quickly.
07
Firefighting Helicopter Pilot
Firefighting helicopter pilots are trained to combat wildfires and structural fires from the air. They operate specialized helicopters equipped with water buckets or tanks to drop water or fire retardant on active fires, helping to control and extinguish them while protecting lives and property.
08
Police Helicopter Pilot
Police helicopter pilots provide aerial support for law enforcement agencies. They assist in surveillance, search and rescue operations, traffic monitoring, and crime scene management, enhancing the effectiveness and safety of police operations from the sky.
09
Military Aviation Officer
Military aviation officers pilot helicopters for various missions, including troop transport, reconnaissance, and combat support. They undergo rigorous training to operate in diverse and challenging environments, contributing to national defense and security.
10
Corporate Pilot
Corporate pilots operate helicopters for business executives and VIPs, providing efficient and comfortable transportation to various destinations. They ensure timely arrivals while managing flight logistics, safety protocols, and passenger needs.
11
Flight Instructor
Flight instructors are experienced pilots who train aspiring helicopter pilots. They provide hands-on instruction, teach flight theory, and ensure that students meet regulatory requirements to obtain their pilot licenses and certifications.
12
And so much more!
The skills and training acquired as a helicopter pilot open doors to a wide range of career opportunities across various industries. From emergency services to tourism, the possibilities are vast and diverse.
TruFlight Academy
Ready to take the next step and make your pilot dreams a reality?
Enroll NowYou Might Also Be Interested In
Continue your aviation journey with these recommended programs.
Discovery Flight
Take the controls and experience the thrill of flying with our modern Cabri G2 helicopter.
Private Pilot Training
Start your helicopter pilot journey with comprehensive private pilot certification training.
Commercial Pilot
Take your skills to the professional level with commercial pilot certification.