Professional advice

[Ptichka]

Hello everyone,

I would kindly ask you to critique my career plan outlined below, which is hopefully not too obtuse.

I find myself under highly felicitous circumstances, allowing me to pursue my dream of controlled flight while making a living from it. I want to become an owner/operator of a single aircraft providing services in heliskiing and sightseeing in Hokkaido, Japan. My education is in business administration, and I'm a successful, ambitious entrepreneur. At nearly 40, I find myself at a changing point in my life, with Japan solidifying itself as my next long-term home. I have engaged in market research and have identified a viable niche business opportunity. Naturally, I will refrain from divulging the particulars on a public online forum.

I want to purchase an IFR-rated Bell 407 GXI for the operation. I have spent countless hours comparing it to the venerable Squirrel and Koala, and it seems that it is the best fit for my target market, being able to take six passengers and a large utility basket. Would you agree with my choice? Do you have any other type suggestions? My budget is $4.5 USD.

Regarding training, I do not have any piloting experience. I'm adept at operating many types of heavy equipment and am a great fan of coordinating multiple inputs to achieve smooth machine operation. I have thoroughly studied the FAA's Rotorcraft Flight Manual and have had in-depth discussions with several knowledgeable people; thus, although far below the level of a novice, I have a basic understanding of the mechanics of flight and some of its perils. I plan to train in Canada and have found a highly reputable training operation - TopFlight, in Penticton, BC. They teach skids down autos in the 407 and do a lot of specialized training that interests me.

I plan to complete my CPL, IFR, night, mountain flight, and other courses over 300 instructed PIC hours. I'm content with investing the funds into this training for obvious reasons. Once I'm at my new base, I intend to spend the first year familiarizing myself with the area of operations and putting in another 200 hours to become a certified "Sky Ace" per North American rules.

I have gathered that the first 500 hours are the formative period, mainly determining the attitudes and practices the pilot will use in their future work. Would you say that my training itinerary provides me with enough training to safely engage in the abovementioned business?

Lastly, has anyone here flown in Japan or is familiar with the area?

Candid feedback is greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your time,

Paul