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Helicopter Private Pilot Training

A Private Pilot License (PPL) is the most popular certificate held and a great place to start for those who are serious about learning how to fly helicopters.

IS HELICOPTER FLIGHT TRAINING RIGHT FOR YOU?

TAKE THE TAMPA BAY AVIATION “FLIGHT TRAINING READINESS QUIZ”

Plans and Pricing

A Private Pilot License (PPL) is the first stepping stone in rotorcraft training. The FAA minimum requirements for private pilots under part 61 regulations are 40 hours of flight time, 10 hours solo pilot in command (PIC), 20 hours of dual instruction. Part 141 requirements are a minimum of 35 hours. Private pilots are required to hold a third class medical or higher. In addition to your flight training you will have to pass a written exam as well as your checkride. The checkride consists of an oral and practical exam. When you pass your checkride you are presented with your Private Pilot Certificate. Once this certificate is achieved, a private pilot will be able to act as PIC in a helicopter under Visual Flight Rules (VFR).

ROBINSON R22 BETA II

$ 17,325
  • Aircraft Rental (**40 hours)
  • Flight Instruction (**30 hours)
  • Ground Instruction (**20 hours)
  • *FAA Check Ride
  • *FAA Written Exam
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*Not paid to TBA. ** Estimates are based off of FAA minimum hours. This price is subject to change pending the number of hours it takes each individual to complete the rating. Aircraft rental based on block rate.

ROBINSON R44 RAVEN II

$ 28,525
  • Aircraft Rental (**40 hours)
  • Flight Instruction (**30 hours)
  • Ground Instruction (**20 hours)
  • *FAA Check Ride
  • *FAA Written Exam
Contact Us
*Not paid to TBA. ** Estimates are based off of FAA minimum hours. This price is subject to change pending the number of hours it takes each individual to complete the rating. Aircraft rental based on block rate.

Looking for financing?

Financing options

What Others Are Saying

“I absolutely CANNOT say enough good things about this operation! Just got my CFI from them, and had fun doing it (which I’m told is not a common phenomenon). It took minimal time, and the cost was about what you’d expect to pay at American Flyers, or ATP for CFI. However, the quality of training you will receive here will far exceed the standard of the “pilot mills”. Larry was my primary instructor but I also flew with Josh, Durant and Mike, all of whom were very knowledgeable and professional (in addition being “down to earth”, and cool). Look no further than these guys for all of your flight training needs! They’re awesome!!!” - Damian W.
“Known to be one of the best Part 61 Flight Schools for a reason! Tampa Bay Aviation, headquartered at Clearwater Airpark boasts an amazing fleet of fixed wing and rotor craft aircraft, that are always kept in excellent condition and ready to fly at a moments notice. This flight school has the best team of Certified Flight Instructor’s I have ever trained with. Taking into account the excellent rental rates for quality aircraft, with highly experienced staff, it is truly safe to say Tampa Bay Aviation is one of the top Flight Schools in the nation!” ~ Jose A.
“Tampa Bay Aviation is an excellent operation. My son did his flight training here last summer and earned his Private Pilot License, and it inspired me to learn to fly as well. The instructors are excellent, the aircraft are up to date and the staff is friendly and helpful. We have recommended them to several friends and they have had excellent experiences as well. Overall, it is a great place to fly. i HIGHLY recommend it!” - Eric M.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • Be at least 17 years old.
  • Be able to read, speak, write and understand the English language.
  • Pass a required knowledge test.
  • Pass a required oral and practical flight test administered by a FAA designated examiner.
  • Hold either a student or sport pilot certificate.
  • Get a Third Class Medical Certificate.

IN THE AIR – The FAA  requires a minimum of 35 Hours Total Flight Time with 20 Hours Flight Instruction. However, many students require more time. There’s no rush and we won’t push you to complete your training until you’re ready. Our students average around 60 total hours of training.

ON THE GROUND – 35 Hours Ground Instruction

TIMELINE – The time it takes to complete your training depends on how frequently you schedule lessons. We offer two training options to accommodate your goals and availability: a flexible, self-paced program and an accelerated program designed for those pursuing a career. All training is conducted one-on-one with an instructor, allowing you to build a schedule that works for you and progress at your own pace. For the self-paced program, we recommend completing no less than 2 lessons per week to maintain steady progress. Students enrolled in the accelerated program should plan to commit a minimum of 10 hours per week to their training.

 

We have a couple of different payment options available!

PAY AS YOU GO- This option allows you to pay after each lesson. The lesson prices will vary depending on what you work on each day and how long you are in the plane/with your instructor.

BLOCK RATES- Our block rates allow you to put money down on your account via cash or check to receive a discount on the hourly rate of the aircraft. We will draw from your deposit each time you fly and let you know when uou are running low.

FINANCING- We work with Flight Training Finance, We Florida Financial, and Stratus Financial to help finance your training. Get more information on these companies on our FINANCING page!

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