A Commercial Pilot License is the first step into the career orientated portion of aviation. Students will become more proficient in aviation weather, the flight computer and the Aeronautical Information Manual.
A Commercial Pilot License (CPL) permits the holder to be compensated for flying, meaning that the pilot will now be rated to fly for hire. The license opens the door for a career in aviation as a professional pilot. To be eligible for a CPL, applicants must hold at least a PPL. An instrument rating is advised. The FAA minimum requirements for pilots under part 61 regulations are 20 hours of training towards a CPL. There will be ground training that will total about 15 hours. In order to obtain a CPL the pilot must have 150 hours of total flight time. Within those 150 hours, there is a minimum of 100 hours of PIC, 35 of which have to be in a helicopter. You are also required to have 10 solo hours and 5 hours of instrument training. Students are also required to have 50 hours minimum in a helicopter.
The cost of helicopter training varies depending on the aircraft, training program and number of hours required. Our Robinson R22 currently rents for $320 per hour and our Robinson R44 for $585 per hour. Rates are hourly wet rates. Instruction is additional. Block-rate discounts are available on select aircraft. Rates are subject to change and applicable fuel surcharges.
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.