Top 10 Helicopter Pilot Certifications

Certifications are essential for a helicopter pilot in the job market as they demonstrate to employers that the individual is qualified and experienced in aviation operations. They are also proof of an individual’s commitment to safety and compliance with industry standards. Certifications can help pilots stand out from the competition, providing them with an edge when applying for jobs. Employers often require certain certifications before hiring a pilot, so having them can be key to landing a job. Additionally, some employers may offer higher salaries or better benefits packages to certified pilots than those without certifications.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Helicopter Pilots and explain how they can benefit a career in the field.

What are Helicopter Pilot Certifications?

Helicopter pilot certification is a type of professional certification which allows pilots to fly helicopters. This certification is required for any individual who wishes to become a helicopter pilot, as it demonstrates that the individual has met the necessary qualifications and standards in order to safely operate a helicopter. The certification process includes a written knowledge test, an oral exam, and a flight test where the pilot must demonstrate their ability to control the aircraft safely.

The benefits of obtaining helicopter pilot certification are numerous. Not only does it allow individuals to pursue careers as professional pilots, but it also provides them with an increased sense of safety when flying, as they have been certified by an accredited agency. Furthermore, having this certification can increase one’s chances of being hired by an employer or even finding higher paying positions within the industry. Additionally, having helicopter pilot certification can open up more opportunities for specialized flight training and other related activities such as aerial photography or search and rescue operations. Finally, having this type of certification can provide individuals with greater job security due to their demonstrated expertise in operating helicopters.

Pro Tip: Before beginning your helicopter pilot certification, make sure to review the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) regulations and guidelines for flying helicopters. Knowing the rules and regulations can help you avoid costly mistakes during your training and certification process.

Related: What does a Helicopter Pilot do?

Top 10 Helicopter Pilot Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Helicopter Pilots today.

1. Private Pilot Certificate (Helicopter)

A Private Pilot Certificate (Helicopter) is a type of pilot license issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). It allows an individual to act as a pilot-in-command of an aircraft in non-commercial operations. This means that the pilot can fly for pleasure, or to transport passengers and cargo within the United States.

It typically takes between 50 and 100 hours of flight time to get a Private Pilot Certificate (Helicopter). This includes both solo and dual instruction, ground school, and FAA written exams. The cost for training varies depending on the type of helicopter used, but it can range from $10,000 to $20,000.

In order to obtain a Private Pilot Certificate (Helicopter), you must be at least 17 years old, have a valid driver’s license, pass an FAA medical exam, and complete the required flight training. You will also need to pass an FAA written exam which covers topics such as aerodynamics, navigation, weather theory, air traffic control procedures and regulations.

Once you have completed your training and passed all tests required by the FAA, you will receive your Private Pilot Certificate (Helicopter). With this certificate you will be able to operate helicopters in non-commercial operations within the United States.

2. Commercial Pilot Certificate (Helicopter)

A Commercial Pilot Certificate (Helicopter) is a certification issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that allows an individual to act as a pilot-in-command of a helicopter for hire. This certificate requires a minimum of 250 hours of flight time, including 100 hours in helicopters and 10 hours of solo flight in helicopters. In addition, applicants must pass written and practical tests to demonstrate their knowledge and skill in operating helicopters.

It typically takes between 6 months and 2 years to obtain a Commercial Pilot Certificate (Helicopter). The amount of time it takes to complete the requirements depends on how much time an individual can dedicate to studying and flying.

To get the certificate, applicants must first obtain a private pilot license or higher rating from the FAA. After obtaining this license, they must then complete ground school courses and receive instruction from an FAA-certified instructor. Once these requirements are met, applicants can take the written exam at an FAA testing center. After passing the written test, they can then proceed with flight training and take their practical exam with an FAA examiner.

The cost of obtaining a Commercial Pilot Certificate (Helicopter) varies depending on several factors such as aircraft rental rates, instructor rates, study materials, etc. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $10,000-$20,000 or more depending on how quickly you want to finish your training and what type of aircraft you’re using for your training flights.

3. Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (Helicopter)

An Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (Helicopter) is a certification issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that allows an individual to act as pilot-in-command of a commercial helicopter. The certificate requires extensive training and experience, and must be renewed every two years.

To obtain an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (Helicopter), an individual must first obtain a private pilot license and then complete additional training, including instrument rating, commercial pilot license, and ATP written exam. After completing the required flight hours and passing all exams, the applicant must pass a practical test with an FAA examiner.

The amount of time it takes to get an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (Helicopter) varies depending on the individual's experience level and how much time they are able to dedicate to their studies. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years or more to complete all of the necessary requirements.

The cost of obtaining an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (Helicopter) will vary depending on where you choose to receive your training and what type of aircraft you plan on flying. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay several thousand dollars for the necessary training courses, exams, and practical tests.

4. Certified Flight Instructor Certificate (Helicopter)

A Certified Flight Instructor Certificate (Helicopter) is a certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that allows an individual to teach others how to fly helicopters. To obtain a CFI-H certificate, applicants must have at least 250 hours of flight time in helicopters, including at least 100 hours as pilot-in-command and 20 hours of flight instruction given. Applicants must also pass both written and practical exams administered by the FAA.

The process of obtaining a CFI-H certificate typically takes between six months and one year, depending on the applicant's experience level and availability for training. The first step is to obtain a private pilot license (PPL), which requires 40 hours of flight time, including 10 hours as pilot-in-command. Once the PPL has been obtained, applicants can begin their training for a CFI-H certificate. This involves completing ground school courses, taking written exams, receiving flight instruction from an instructor with a CFI rating, and passing a practical exam administered by the FAA.

The cost of obtaining a CFI-H certificate varies depending on the applicant's experience level and location. Generally speaking, it will cost around $10,000-$15,000 for all necessary training materials and fees associated with obtaining the certificate.

5. Instrument Rating (Helicopter)

An Instrument Rating (Helicopter) is a type of pilot certification that allows a pilot to fly in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). This means the pilot can fly in clouds, fog, and other weather conditions where visual flight rules (VFR) are not applicable. An Instrument Rating requires additional training beyond a private or commercial pilot certificate.

To obtain an Instrument Rating, a student must have at least 40 hours of total flight time as a helicopter pilot, including 20 hours of instrument instruction with an approved instructor. The student must also pass an FAA written exam and complete an FAA practical test with an examiner.

The cost of obtaining an Instrument Rating varies depending on the individual's experience level and the amount of instruction needed. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $5,000-$10,000 to complete the training and receive the rating. The entire process typically takes between two and six months to complete.

6. Certified Flight Instructor-Instrument Rating (Helicopter)

A Certified Flight Instructor-Instrument Rating (Helicopter) is a type of FAA certification that allows pilots to teach others how to fly helicopters in instrument meteorological conditions. This rating requires the pilot to have a minimum of 200 hours of flight time, including 100 hours in helicopters and 50 hours of cross-country flight time. In addition, the pilot must pass an FAA written exam as well as complete an oral and practical test with an FAA examiner.

The process of obtaining a CFI-IR (H) can take anywhere from two months to one year depending on the individual’s experience level and availability for training. The cost of obtaining this rating can range from $7,000-$10,000 depending on the type of instruction chosen and location. To get started, it is best to contact a local flight school or instructor who can provide more information about the requirements and costs associated with obtaining this rating.

7. Rotorcraft-External Load Operations Endorsement

Rotorcraft-External Load Operations Endorsement is a certification that allows a pilot to fly an aircraft with an external load attached. This endorsement is required for any pilot who wants to operate an aircraft with an external load, such as a cargo sling or long line. The endorsement requires the pilot to demonstrate proficiency in the areas of preflight planning, loading and unloading, maneuvering, and emergency procedures.

In order to obtain the Rotorcraft-External Load Operations Endorsement, pilots must complete a ground school course that covers all aspects of external load operations. The course typically takes about two days to complete and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. After completing the ground school course, pilots must then pass a written exam and flight test with an FAA-certified examiner before they can receive their endorsement.

The cost of obtaining the Rotorcraft-External Load Operations Endorsement varies depending on the type of training program chosen by the pilot. Generally speaking, it will cost between $1,000-$2,000 for the ground school course and additional fees for the written exam and flight test.

8. Instrument Proficiency Check Endorsement

An Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC) Endorsement is a document that certifies a pilot’s ability to safely and competently fly an aircraft in instrument meteorological conditions. This endorsement is required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for pilots who wish to operate an aircraft in instrument meteorological conditions.

The IPC Endorsement typically takes between two and three hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the maneuvers and the skill level of the pilot. The process includes a pre-flight briefing, a flight test with an FAA-designated examiner, and a post-flight debriefing. During the flight test, the examiner will evaluate the pilot's ability to safely navigate, communicate, manage systems, and perform specific maneuvers as required by regulation.

To obtain an IPC Endorsement, pilots must first complete ground school training and obtain their Instrument Rating from an FAA-approved school or instructor. Once this is completed, they can schedule an appointment with an FAA-designated examiner for their IPC checkride. The cost of obtaining an IPC Endorsement varies depending on the instructor or school providing the service; however, it typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

9. High Altitude Endorsement

High Altitude Endorsement is an additional qualification that a pilot can obtain in order to fly at higher altitudes. It is typically needed for those who want to fly above 18,000 feet, which is the maximum altitude for most commercial aircraft. The endorsement requires additional training and knowledge of high-altitude operations and safety procedures.

The length of time it takes to get a High Altitude Endorsement depends on the individual's experience level and how much ground school they have taken. Typically it will take around 10 hours of instruction and practice flights before the pilot is ready for their checkride with an FAA examiner.

In order to get a High Altitude Endorsement, pilots must first complete their initial training requirements such as obtaining a private pilot license or instrument rating. They must then find an instructor who can provide them with additional instruction in high-altitude operations. After completing the required ground school and practice flights, they must pass a checkride with an FAA examiner in order to receive their endorsement.

The cost of getting a High Altitude Endorsement varies depending on the instructor and type of aircraft used for training. Generally speaking, it will cost between $1,500-$2,500 USD for the additional instruction and checkride fees.

10. Night Vision Goggle Endorsement

Night Vision Goggle (NVG) Endorsement is an official certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that allows pilots to fly at night using Night Vision Goggles. This endorsement requires additional training and testing beyond what is required for a standard pilot’s license.

To obtain an NVG endorsement, pilots must complete a ground course and flight training with an FAA-certified instructor. The ground course typically takes about four hours to complete and covers topics such as night vision goggle operations, aircraft systems, weather considerations, and emergency procedures. The flight training includes two to three hours of flying with NVGs in which the instructor will demonstrate how to safely operate the aircraft while wearing the goggles.

In addition to completing the ground course and flight training, pilots must also pass a written exam on NVG operations administered by their local Flight Standards District Office (FSDO). Once all requirements are met, the FSDO will issue an NVG endorsement on the pilot’s airman certificate.

The cost of obtaining an NVG endorsement can vary depending on the type of instruction received and location of training. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000 for both ground and flight instruction combined.

Do You Really Need a Helicopter Pilot Certificate?

When it comes to the question of whether or not someone needs a helicopter pilot certificate, the answer is that it depends on what their goals are. If an individual wants to pursue a career in aviation, then obtaining a helicopter pilot certificate is essential. In order to fly commercially, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires that pilots have both a private and commercial pilot license. A private pilot license only allows pilots to fly recreationally, while a commercial license is required for paid flights.

On the other hand, if an individual simply wants to fly helicopters for fun or leisure purposes and does not intend to make money off of it, then they may not need a helicopter pilot certificate. However, even in this case there are still some risks involved and individuals should be aware of the regulations regarding recreational flying. Depending on where an individual lives, they may need to obtain some sort of permit from their local government in order to legally operate the aircraft. Furthermore, those who want to fly for recreational purposes must also follow FAA regulations and complete any necessary safety training courses.

In conclusion, whether or not an individual needs a helicopter pilot certificate depends largely on their goals and intentions when it comes to flying helicopters. For those who want to pursue a career in aviation and make money as a professional helicopter pilot, obtaining a proper certification is essential. On the other hand, those who simply want to fly recreationally may not need one but should still be aware of applicable regulations and safety measures before taking off.

Related: Helicopter Pilot Resume Examples

FAQs About Helicopter Pilot Certifications

1. What is the minimum age requirement to become a helicopter pilot?

Answer: The minimum age requirement to become a certified helicopter pilot is 16 years old.

2. How long does it take to become a certified helicopter pilot?

Answer: It can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years of training, depending on the type of certification sought after.

3. What kind of license do I need to fly a helicopter?

Answer: To fly a helicopter, you must obtain either a Private Pilot License (PPL) or Commercial Pilot License (CPL).

4. How many hours of flight experience are required for certification?

Answer: Generally, 150-200 hours of flight experience is required for certification, depending on the type of license being obtained.

5. What documents do I need in order to get my helicopter pilot certification?

Answer: You will need several documents in order to get your certification, including proof of medical fitness, valid ID, and an official logbook with all flight time logged in it.