Some participants decide to sign up to helicopter pilot training later in life.
Once they have worked regular jobs or have found the money and time to explore new options, then they want to chase their dreams and fly for a living.
Yet this is not a profession that should be limited to older members.
The key for young individuals is following through on the right steps to best prepare them for the journey ahead.
We will look at the ways in which young applicants can find out if helicopter pilot training courses are right for them.
Take a Trip Inside a Helicopter
One of the first steps that any young citizen can take before they embark on helicopter pilot training courses is to fly in one as a passenger. There are dozens and dozens of these outlets across state lines with many practitioners based in metropolitan regions like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Hobart, Adelaide and Perth. Once they can see how they operate in real time and what the sensation is like, it is easy to take the concept from a theoretical one to reality.
Talk to Experienced Pilots
For those who do take the step to fly as a passenger before they approach helicopter pilot training, then they will have the opportunity to talk with a professional about the practice. What was their main takeaway from the journey? Do they have tips and advice to pass on about what kind of course they attended and how they managed to transition from amateur to specialist operating pilot? Those types of discussions are very beneficial because they help to separate fact from fiction.
Examine Procedures Online
Aspiring young helicopter pilots won’t need any extra encouragement to run online searches to see what kind of procedures are involved. Programs recognise that their website, their social media profile and app integration allows members to watch videos, read articles, listen to podcasts and track what kind of expectations they can have ahead of time. If these brands afford that type of digital communication and content, why not take advantage?
Assess Quality of Training Outlets
A benefit of undertaking that online search regarding helicopter pilot training is that participants can see how these programs and outlets rank amongst each other. This will depend on their location, their resources and if they are developed around public or private protocols, but many of the same principles apply. Do they rate well out of 5 stars? Do they receive warm recommendations and have extensive networks domestically and overseas? See what others say about their service first.
Develop a Target for Private or Commercial Flying
There are unique properties involved when it comes to commercial vs. private helicopter pilot training courses. The provisions and requirements are unique as aeronautical proficiency, training syllabus, flight examinations and flying hours are customised to meet the licence demands. Young applicants are encouraged to have an idea about what avenue they want to explore in this setting, although there will be time down the line to change course and adapt the licence according to their personal career objectives.
Willingness to do the Hard Work
The good news for young people who have helicopter pilot training in their sights is that they don’t have to remove all of their other commitments. This is something that can be complemented with other studies and career responsibilities. With this being said, this is not a course that can be quickly engaged. Participants will need to learn the theory and undertake the necessary hours before they are ready to qualify for their licence. The use of at-home training techniques is also part of the package, ensuring that they are ready for the subtle movements of the cyclic control.