How To: Become a Helicopter Pilot (with Wings Air!)

Step 1: Get Qualified

There are some notable qualifications you need long before you start helicopter flight training. You can start taking lessons at as young as 13-14 years old but you will have to have turned 17 by the time you take your flight test (checkride). There is no maximum age to begin flight training but at some point, you will need to pass a medical exam provided by an FAA-designated doctor. And even though you don’t need a degree or have military experience, it’s definitely a plus if you have one. Being a helicopter pilot is not only about flying the helicopter but you will need some basic math and geography skills.

Step 2: Become a Helicopter Pilot

You need experience before you can become a pilot. So, the first step is getting all the hours you need. Determine whether you want to obtain your Private Pilot Certificate or your Commercial Pilot Certificate. The difference will be in what you will be using your new skills for. If you want to fly for pleasure, you’ll only need to complete your Private Pilot Certificate. That means only 40 hours of flight time is required by the FAA. If you want to make a career out of this, you’ll need to take the tests for both of the certificates and accumulate a minimum of 150 hours.

We are one of the closest flight schools to NYC and offer helicopter flight training 7 days a week. Our certified flight instructions will be with you every step of the way to help you achieve your aviation goals. If you have any questions about helicopter flight training please don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to flying with you!