Here’s a brief list of what Helicopter Pilots do:

• Pre-flight Planning: Reviews weather conditions, flight plans, and mission objectives before each flight.

• Aircraft Inspection: Conducts pre-flight inspections to ensure the helicopter is airworthy and all systems are functioning properly.

• Flight Operations: Operates the helicopter during takeoff, flight, and landing, following flight plans and air traffic control instructions.

• Navigation: Navigates the helicopter using instruments and visual references to maintain the correct flight path and altitude.

• Communication: Communicates with air traffic control (ATC) and ground personnel to coordinate flight activities and ensure compliance with airspace regulations.

• Passenger or Cargo Transport: Transports passengers, cargo, or supplies to designated locations, ensuring safety and efficiency.

• Emergency Response: Responds to emergencies or unexpected situations, such as mechanical issues or weather changes, to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.

Here’s how YOU can become one:

 1. Meet Basic Requirements:

• Age: Typically, you must be at least 17 years old to obtain a private pilot certificate for helicopters in the United States. Requirements may vary in other countries.

• Medical Fitness: Pass a medical examination by an authorized aviation medical examiner to ensure you meet the health and fitness standards required for flying.

2. Educational Requirements:

• High School Diploma: A high school diploma or equivalent is generally required to begin flight training.

• Optional College Degree: While not mandatory, a bachelor’s degree in aviation or a related field can enhance your knowledge and career prospects in aviation.

3. Flight Training:

• Choose a Reputable Flight School: Select a flight school or aviation academy that offers helicopter pilot training. Ensure the school is accredited by the aviation authority in your country (e.g., FAA in the USA, EASA in Europe).

• Obtain a Student Pilot Certificate: Apply for a student pilot certificate from the aviation authority in your country. This allows you to begin flight training.

4. Obtain Required Pilot Licenses and Ratings:

• Private Pilot License (PPL) - Helicopter: Start with obtaining a PPL for helicopters, which allows you to fly for personal use.

• Requirements: Complete a minimum number of flight hours (e.g., 40-50 hours), pass a medical exam, and pass written and practical flight exams.

• Commercial Pilot License (CPL) - Helicopter: To fly helicopters for compensation or hire, obtain a CPL.

• Requirements: Accumulate additional flight hours (e.g., 150-200 hours), receive additional training, and pass written and practical exams.

• Instrument Rating: Consider obtaining an instrument rating, which allows you to fly helicopters in low visibility conditions using instruments.

5. Gain Experience:

• Flight Hours: Build flight experience beyond the minimum requirements for licensure. Helicopter pilots often need several hundred hours of flight time to be competitive for jobs.

• Specialized Training: Consider specialized training such as night flying, mountain flying, or aerial firefighting to expand your skills and career opportunities.

6. Obtain Certifications and Endorsements:

• Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) - Helicopter: Become a certified flight instructor to teach others to fly helicopters.

• Requirements: Obtain a CFI certificate, which involves passing written and practical exams.

• Other Endorsements: Depending on your career goals, obtain endorsements such as Multi-Engine Instructor (MEI) or External Load (e.g., for aerial work like construction or firefighting).

7. Build a Professional Network and Gain Employment:

• Network: Join professional aviation organizations, attend industry events, and connect with other pilots and employers in the helicopter industry.

• Job Search: Look for entry-level pilot positions with helicopter operators, charter companies, aerial tours, or emergency medical services (EMS).

  This is a very brief and general plan. To know your specific academic path for this career please talk to an advisor at the college or program you plan on attending!