Flight Training

Private Pilot Certificate

This license allows the pilot to carry passengers, use the aircraft for personal and business travel use. A Private pilot may share the expenses of flying, but may not charge for services.
License Requirements

Be at least 17 years of age
Pass a Knowledge Test
Pass a Practical Test (This involves oral quizzing and a “flying test” in the helicopter, called a Checkride)
Complete 40 hours of training, including 20 hours of dual training and 10 hours of solo (Airplane pilots need only 30 hours to obtain their Private Pilot -Rotorcraft licenses

Commercial Pilot Certificate

This license allows the pilot to get PAID to fly! A commercial pilot can get paid for transporting passengers and cargo, and give flight instruction if the pilot also holds an Instructor Rating.
License Requirements

Be at least 18 years of age
Pass a Knowledge Test
Pass a Practical Test
Accumulate 150 hours of total flight time, which includes 50 hours in helicopters. Hours earned in Airplanes or other types of aircraft count toward the 150-hour requirement

Instrument Rating

In addition to the Private of Commercial licenses, the instrument rating allows the pilot to safely operate in weather and visibility that is below Visual Flight Rules minimums.

Be at least 18 years of age
Pass a Knowledge Test
Pass a Practical Test
Accumulate 150 hours of total flight time, which includes 50 hours in helicopters. Hours earned in Airplanes or other types of aircraft count toward the 150-hour requirement

Airplane Pilot to Helicopter Pilot Conversion

If you already hold airplane licenses, the hours are much less (and much less expensive!) for those willing to add on the Rotorcraft Category to their pilot certificates.

Private Pilot – 30 hours
Instrument Rating – 15 hour of instruction given
Commercial Pilot – 50 hours total helicopter time. NOTE: The hours earned in getting the private and instrument ratings count towards the Commercial Pilot – Rotorcraft license!

Faithful Guardian-Approved Flight 141 School