Q. How much does it cost?
A. The cost of training with us includes helicopter hire and all running expenses (fuel, maintenance, insurance, all required equipment), an experienced instructor, airways & landing fees and preflight lesson briefings so there are no hidden costs.
- R22 $700+ GST per hour
- R44 $1100+ GST per hour
- B206 Jetranger $1750+ GST per hour
- Hughes 500 D/E Model $2500+ GST per hour
- AS350 B2 Squirrel $3200+ GST per hour
Q. How long does it take/what days can I fly?
A. We can have you up flying most days (Mon-Fri typically). For most people, the exams can be a hold up. Getting started on the theory early is a great idea! PPL licence typically takes 4 months.
Q. What are jobs like once I have my CPL/what job opportunities are there?
A. If you are willing to put in the hard work and move around the country for a job then there are opportunities for the right candidate. Upon completing your flight training with us we can provide references for job applications.
Q. When should I get my medical?
A. It depends on what licence you are wanting. If you want to do your CPL we recommend you getting your Class 1 first to ensure you can get it. Once your class 1 expires you can fly on your Class 2 until you are ready to sit your CPL flight test. If you are only wanting your PPL you can either get a class 2 or a DL9 medical. The DL9 medical is obtainable from your GP, whereas an aviation class 1 or 2 must be obtained from a. certified medical examiner.
Below is the application form for your medical.
https://www.aviation.govt.nz/licensing-and-certification/medical-certification/nz-medical-examiners/
Q. How do I do my Fit & Proper Person?
A. To get your licence you need to prove that you are a fit and and proper person. This is done by checking all your criminal and driving records and filling out the below form.
https://www.aviation.govt.nz/assets/forms/24FPP.pdf
Q. How do I start the process of getting my licence?
A. Come in and see us for a trial flight and have a chat with us about what is involved in getting your licence.
Q. What theory do I have to do? What/how many exams are there?
A. There are 6 written PPL exams and 1 verbal exam. To get your CPL there is an additional 6 theory exams and an optional extra.
The PPL exams are: FRTO Flight Radiotelephony, Human Factors, Air Law (helicopter), Navigation and Flight Planning, Aircraft Technical Knowledge (helicopter), Meteorology, and Aviation Language Prof. (verbal)
CPL exams: Air Law (helicopter), Flight Navigation, Meteorology, Human Factors, General Aircraft Technical Knowledge (helicopter), Principles of Flight and Aircraft Performance, and Basic Turbine Knowledge (optional).
Q. Are helicopters safe/how safe are they?
A. Helicopters are incredibly safe when flown within their limitations and flight envelopes. Personal decision making plays a huge part in aviation safety.
Q. Can I get a student loan?
A. Yes you can get student loan funding unfortunately its not something we offer.