Airplane Pilots who already hold a Commercial, ATP or CFI Rating/s in fixed-wing aircraft can earn an “Add-On” Rating in a helicopter. Those pilots are NOT required to take the FAA Commercial Helicopter written exam and the minimum number of total required dual training hours is reduced. The flight training hour requirements are less, and since you are already a pilot, less ground school helicopter lessons are needed. The Commercial Pilot Certificate is a necessary second step (after the Private Certificate) for those who aspire to become professional helicopter pilots and/or flight instructors.

Most of our add-on pilots complete their helicopter training within FAA minimums, although this varies from student to student. If you have never flown a Robinson Series helicopter (except the R66 Turbine) before, your Heli Aviation instructor will give you the required Awareness Training as required by SFAR 73 to Part 61(2)(a)(1-3), prior to your first flight. The first 20 hours are considered a required training prior to being able to act as, and log Pilot-in-Command (PIC) flight time (refer to SFAR 73 (2)(b)(3)). This is also required for solo flying. After the first 20 hours of dual training, we will issue an endorsement based on FAR 61.31(d)(2), which allows you to start logging PIC time towards the 35 hour PIC time requirements as stated in FAR 61.129(c)(2)(i). The next 20 hours will consist mostly of Emergency Procedures Training to meet Commercial PTS Standards, and training on the areas of operation listed in FAR 61.127(b)(3). The next 5 hours are going to be on the control and maneuvering the helicopter solely by reference to instruments as required by FAR 61.129(c)(3)(i). The final 10 hours will be used towards the 10 hours solo requirements as listed in FAR 61.129(c)(4). 100 hours of your fixed wing time counts towards the 150 hours total flight time requirements. FAR 61.129(c)(1) allows you to use up to 100 hours in “powered aircraft” (e.g. fixed wing, etc.) to be used towards the 150 hours total flight time requirements. However, at least 50 hours must be in helicopter. The 55 hours of rotorcraft time you acquire during your training with Heli Aviation, count towards these aforementioned total time requirements. Before you’re signed off to your checkride, we will make sure that your flying is to commercial PTS Standards. Your CFI and the Chief Instructor will evaluate your theoretical knowledge and flying skills, prior to scheduling the oral and practical exam. Heli Aviation has over 60 candidates a year that apply for a CPL Add-On rating to an existing fixed-wing license, and we know the best way to accomplish your required flight time at the lowest costs possible.

Still Undecided?
Book an introductory flying lesson and take the controls with an experienced instructor by your side! The ultimate thrill and adrenaline rush that’s sure to bring a smile to your face! Starting at just $159. Call our office at (941) 355-1525.

COURSE PREREQUISITES

Hold at least a Private or Commercial Fixed-Wing Rating.
Be at least 17 years of age.
Read, speak & understand the English language.
Hold at least a 3rd Class Medical.
Weight does not exceed 230 lbs.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

40 hrs Dual Training in a Robinson R22
5 hrs Dual IFR Training in a Robinson R22
10 hrs Solo Training in a Robinson R22
10 hrs Ground Instruction

COURSE COMPLETION

Pass an Oral and Practical Flight Test.
No written test required!

ESTIMATED DURATION

Start your training at any time.
Estimated Duration: 3 to 5 Weeks.

ESTIMATED COSTS

$16,975 USD $15,875 pre-paid
Pay as you go, NO upfront payments. Call about Financing. Books & Training Material not included.