Heli training options.
Hi
I did my PPLH on a Hughes 300 after switching from fixed wing with 1400 hrs.
There are pros and cons for all three mentioned, the Enstrom is heavy though forgiving to fly, the R22 plentiful but it was not designed as a training helicopter but as a transition machine for experienced pilots, the Hughes designed for the military as a trainer is my vote for the best all round machine.
It has an excellent load carrying capability is not so critical of pilots reaction time in autorotation, one is not flying in constant paranoia of chopping off the tailboom in with a negative maneuver, there is plenty of interior room and excellent endurance.
With respect to operating costs, Mr Robinson does not actually sell his helicopters but only leases them as they need to be purchased again every 12 years or 2200 hrs.
I have a friend who is doing their PPLH on an R22 who has the same number of fixed wing hours as me and they took 65 hours to go solo ! This may be a reflection on the pilots ability or the instructor but in my opinion a trainer should be easy to fly and with modest ability the pilot should be able to progress through the PPL syllabus at the recommended intervals i.e going solo at 12 to 20 hours.
If it takes 60 to 100 hrs to obtain a PPL then the economics of using an R22 don't work. It should be reasonable achievable at the CAA suggested time of 45 hrs.
I don't consider myself to be specially gifted as a pilot, I did my PPLH when I was 55 so my reaction times must be slowing down now.
Try out all 3 machines and ask the clubs to show you their records of how long it is taking their students to obtain their licences, you may just be a nice juicy meal ticket for them.
Good luck