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Gift ideas?

Have you thought of a Lake District helicopter flight as a very special Christmas gift package? Flights over the stunning Lake District are conducted all year round with some truly awesome scenery to be found along the way. Please get in touch and we can help you to customise a package to exactly meet your requirements from a romantic get-away to a aviation version of Wainwright bagging!

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Helivation Training Frequently Asked Questions

Is learning to fly a helicopter difficult?

Everything is difficult if you can't do it! Learning to fly is a big step in anyone's life and sometimes it is very hard to make that decision to go ahead with it. It does take commitment as learning to fly is not just about the physical flying but also about some theory study and passing exams…however, helicopters were designed to be flown by people and in the same way as riding a bicycle seems difficult before you can do…it's not that hard really!

How about the ground school?

A multiple-choice exam will have to be passed and in the case of radio (RT), a practical test will need to be completed as well. At first glance, the list of subjects may seem daunting but it progressively forms a logical part of the training course and is perfectly achievable for everyone. We also provide structured ground school courses to help with your studies. You will need to acquire some reading and self study material as you progress - a logbook, charts, books, navigation equipment etc. All of which are available from our shop. Your instructor will discuss this with you at the appropriate times in you training.

Radio Telephony Course

You will need to know how to correctly use the radio and eventually attain the standard to be awarded an RT licence. The course is presented in such a way that achieving this standard is fun and interesting. The course includes: Radio Theory, Definitions, and Words/Phrases. Although the course is comprehensive, it is presented as light hearted as possible and is a fun way to get your RT licence. The course is suitable for people at any stage of their training.

How often should I fly?

How frequently you choose to have your lessons is up to you, but experience tells us that continuity tends to help with progression.

How long do the courses take?

This is entirely up to you! It can be done in a few months, or some people spread it over a year or more. Ideally however, you should fly as often as possible as 'currency' is the key factor in efficiently achieving the end goal. How frequently each person chooses to fly usually depends upon the reason for the course and also available finances.

What are the medical requirements?

You do not need a medical to begin your flight training. To be awarded the EASA PPL(H) a class 2 medical is sufficient and provided you are in good health, this should be nothing for you to worry about. A Class II medical can be obtained locally from an Authorised Medical Examiner (AME). A list of approved AME's is available from us. If you intend to make a career from helicopter flying, it is advisable to obtain a class 1 medical as early as possible, and certainly prior to your first solo flight, i.e. after about 15 to 20 hours flying.

What are the age restrictions?

There is no maximum age, but you must be 14 before any flying experience can count towards obtaining a licence, 16 before going solo and 17 before you can apply for your licence. You must be 18 before you can apply for a commercial licence.

How do I keep my licence current?

The PPL (H) itself is valid for five years (although this is due to be unrestricted in the near future) To use your JAR PPL (H) there are two main requirements: Firstly, you must have a current medical. Secondly, having achieved your PPL (H) you must fly for at least 2 hours each year on each helicopter type. You also need an annual licence proficiency check (LPC) for each type with a CAA approved examiner, but we can arrange all this for you.

Can I count fixed wing experience towards a helicopter licence?