Which country for training?
Hovering AND talking
Join Date: Feb 2003
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Hencloud,
Your vote of confidence is awfully sweet but...er.... I'm not quite sure what advice I could give you in that I am still an hour-building PPL.
Perhaps my very good friend Whirlybird might be able to help here?
Cheers
Whirlygig
Your vote of confidence is awfully sweet but...er.... I'm not quite sure what advice I could give you in that I am still an hour-building PPL.
Perhaps my very good friend Whirlybird might be able to help here?
Cheers
Whirlygig
The Original Whirly
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Whirlygig and hencloud,
I wish I knew. There are no certainties in this industry. Is it worth spending another shedload of money? It might be, but I really have no idea.
I wish I knew. There are no certainties in this industry. Is it worth spending another shedload of money? It might be, but I really have no idea.
Join Date: Apr 2003
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Come to the US, where you train at half the cost, take the chance. Why? Because that's the way the world works. You don't get more for your hard earned money in Eurpoe or the UK, you just pay more.
Don't believe the myth that an FAA test is not a real test. Half the flying machines on the planet are being used daily by we "substandard" pilots, at accident rates that are at least the same as Europe and the UK. There is a reason why the US has twice the number of hours, pilots and aircraft per unit population.
I can't understand why someone in the UK would balk at the idea of living in a hotel in Florida for 1.5 years with like minded people, get a whole slew of flying certificates, stand in the running for CFI jobs in the US, and still pay half what it would cost in the UK!
You want guarantees in your career? Learn to be an Undertaker, there is always work. You want to be a professional pilot? Take the plunge! SASless and I volunteered for Vietnam as the price we paid for pilot training. 18 months in Vero Beach is a lot more to my current liking!
Don't believe the myth that an FAA test is not a real test. Half the flying machines on the planet are being used daily by we "substandard" pilots, at accident rates that are at least the same as Europe and the UK. There is a reason why the US has twice the number of hours, pilots and aircraft per unit population.
I can't understand why someone in the UK would balk at the idea of living in a hotel in Florida for 1.5 years with like minded people, get a whole slew of flying certificates, stand in the running for CFI jobs in the US, and still pay half what it would cost in the UK!
You want guarantees in your career? Learn to be an Undertaker, there is always work. You want to be a professional pilot? Take the plunge! SASless and I volunteered for Vietnam as the price we paid for pilot training. 18 months in Vero Beach is a lot more to my current liking!
Join Date: Jan 2003
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Instruction in the US could be equally good compared to f.e. the UK but it's also a fact that the FAA will allow schools and instructors who won't do a good job. I'm sure that Bell school provides very good quality of instruction but then it's starting to cost.
You shouldn't lump everyone together but there is an attitude of "I just want to build my hours" among many US CFI's. Being able to work as an instructor in the US is of course valuable but do keep in mind that you are not welcome in the US anymore when you want to continue your career. A 1000 hours of instruction given is great but not necessarily your ticket (after you have converted to JAR of course) to commercial work in Europe.
You shouldn't lump everyone together but there is an attitude of "I just want to build my hours" among many US CFI's. Being able to work as an instructor in the US is of course valuable but do keep in mind that you are not welcome in the US anymore when you want to continue your career. A 1000 hours of instruction given is great but not necessarily your ticket (after you have converted to JAR of course) to commercial work in Europe.
Join Date: Nov 2004
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>>Oh and last but not least when I started back in late 1996 I called/faxed/email every school I could find - 50 odd in the US - 49 responed, 30 odd in the UK - 2 responded.... customer service still matters to some people...>>
I've found this same thing to be true while contacting schools during the last year and a half. The UK schools have been notoriously poor at responding to my inquiries. I expect some sort of response no matter what it might be.
I did my JAA training at HAI as well and am currently finishing my FAA commercial rating at another school. I found that HAI is comparatively much more professional and dedicated to their students. I can't speak for the FAA side yet, but the JAA students have reserved aircraft and never have problems getting a ship. I'm told they're doing the same with the CFI students now as well, so I guess it's only those FAA PPL/commercial students that might have a little trouble.
While they can't guarantee a job upon completion, I'd rather go to a school that actually puts forth the effort for their students. I'll be going back to HAI to do my CFI because I know they can get it done and done well, rather than the place I'm at which is highly unprofessional but claims to be the regions leader in flight training.
I've found this same thing to be true while contacting schools during the last year and a half. The UK schools have been notoriously poor at responding to my inquiries. I expect some sort of response no matter what it might be.
I did my JAA training at HAI as well and am currently finishing my FAA commercial rating at another school. I found that HAI is comparatively much more professional and dedicated to their students. I can't speak for the FAA side yet, but the JAA students have reserved aircraft and never have problems getting a ship. I'm told they're doing the same with the CFI students now as well, so I guess it's only those FAA PPL/commercial students that might have a little trouble.
While they can't guarantee a job upon completion, I'd rather go to a school that actually puts forth the effort for their students. I'll be going back to HAI to do my CFI because I know they can get it done and done well, rather than the place I'm at which is highly unprofessional but claims to be the regions leader in flight training.
Join Date: Jun 2005
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American prices look great compared to UK rates but as a student with 19 hours towards PPL(H) and a desire to go for ATPL I am trying to find out as much as possible about all the routes to professional qualification.
I know a guy from my flight school who's gone to HAI on the FAA course starting last Monday. I've talked to one of HAI's JAA/FAA combined CPL instructors who, obviously, sung the schools praises.
I've spoken to my UK instructor who simply passed valid comments of needing to be careful that the JAA qualification is recognised back here in the UK, and that it is importnat to have knowledge of the airspace you want to fly commercially in, be that US or UK or Oz etc
I am unsure whether to pursue the FAA route myself, after getting the PPL(H) in the UK first. The FAA course seems to be a hell of a lot of training for a lot smaller capital outlay, but:
1) how transferrable is a FAA license if I came back the UK?
2) what conversion would I have to do and how much would it be?
3) If i went on a J-1 for two years, how easy is it to get an instructors or commercial job after the training as I'd need to building as many hours as possible and making some money too!
4) Has anyone heard anything about Ocean helicopters in Florida, they dont do the sling and mountain courses but do everything up to CFII for about £40000, including accomodation
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
I know a guy from my flight school who's gone to HAI on the FAA course starting last Monday. I've talked to one of HAI's JAA/FAA combined CPL instructors who, obviously, sung the schools praises.
I've spoken to my UK instructor who simply passed valid comments of needing to be careful that the JAA qualification is recognised back here in the UK, and that it is importnat to have knowledge of the airspace you want to fly commercially in, be that US or UK or Oz etc
I am unsure whether to pursue the FAA route myself, after getting the PPL(H) in the UK first. The FAA course seems to be a hell of a lot of training for a lot smaller capital outlay, but:
1) how transferrable is a FAA license if I came back the UK?
2) what conversion would I have to do and how much would it be?
3) If i went on a J-1 for two years, how easy is it to get an instructors or commercial job after the training as I'd need to building as many hours as possible and making some money too!
4) Has anyone heard anything about Ocean helicopters in Florida, they dont do the sling and mountain courses but do everything up to CFII for about £40000, including accomodation
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
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all this stuff has been answered before in great detail. I suggest you PM Heliport the moderator - he'll put you straight ! Failing that, do a search. I have spoken to Ocean before. They are exceptionally helpful ( like no other outfit I have ever come across ) and they get great reports on here. Easy - this is a word which does not go hand in hand with the heli-game. It is all vast amounts of cash and shere grit and determination to get anywhere. Then you have to be very lucky !!
TFS
TFS
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Helicopter Pilot Wannabe
Hello,
I was recommended this site by a friend and hoped someone out there could assist me. I am based in the UK and I am trying to figure out the best way of obtaining my PPL (H). For expense purposes the United States is very Ideal. At the moment I am talking to Palm Beach Helicopters, Florida.
Has anyone used this training school before or got any suggestions of a good training school.
The other concern I do have is will it be difficult to transfer my US license into a UK compliant version. Does anyone know the process I will have to go through.
To train in the UK i have been speaking to AV8 Helicopters,Kent.
They are local to me, does any one have any reports on this company.
Basically I am a newbee and desperate to achieve my personal PPL (H), for private flying. Any information would be a great help. Thanks for all your help guys!
I was recommended this site by a friend and hoped someone out there could assist me. I am based in the UK and I am trying to figure out the best way of obtaining my PPL (H). For expense purposes the United States is very Ideal. At the moment I am talking to Palm Beach Helicopters, Florida.
Has anyone used this training school before or got any suggestions of a good training school.
The other concern I do have is will it be difficult to transfer my US license into a UK compliant version. Does anyone know the process I will have to go through.
To train in the UK i have been speaking to AV8 Helicopters,Kent.
They are local to me, does any one have any reports on this company.
Basically I am a newbee and desperate to achieve my personal PPL (H), for private flying. Any information would be a great help. Thanks for all your help guys!
Join Date: May 2005
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From what I've heard, transfering a US licence to UK can take up to a year, plus you'll probably have to take the exams you wouldn't have done in the US. I also hear that it can cost a fair ammount to change it over to the UK (although exactly what the costs are I couldn't say).
Add on the cost of the flight over there and paying for your living/accomodation and it works out almost as expensive as the UK licence!
So unless you really want relatively unspoilt weather and a bit of a holiday whilst learning, or you're prepared to go through the hassles and costs of converting your licence, learn in the UK!
Add on the cost of the flight over there and paying for your living/accomodation and it works out almost as expensive as the UK licence!
So unless you really want relatively unspoilt weather and a bit of a holiday whilst learning, or you're prepared to go through the hassles and costs of converting your licence, learn in the UK!
Join Date: Mar 2000
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Broggie
Better still, click here
Your question has been asked many times before, because of the cost savings. There's a lot of information on that link which will help you decide between the different opinions expressed.
The majority view, in no particular order, seems to be:
Training is a lot cheaper in America, but take into account flight and accommodation costs when you decide where to train.
Don't expect to obtain your PPL(H) in the three weeks many fixed-wing schools advertise - allow for additional accommodation costs.
Wherever you train, you're unlikely to obtain your PPL in the minimum hours. Work on the basis that you'll need at least 45 hours if you do a concentrated course; more if you spread the course over a longer period.
If you decide to learn in the US, do at least some of your ground exams before you go. They can be taken in the UK.
If you train in the US, choose a school which trains on the same type of helicopter as you expect to rent when you get back.
Completely disregard any claims you hear in the UK that training in American schools isn't as good. There's good and bad in both countries, just like everywhere else in the world.
You can fly in the UK on an FAA licence.
Every school in every country will require you to do a check ride before allowing you to rent. If you've trained abroad, a UK school will almost certainly require you to do a couple of hours or so in the local area with an instructor. You'll also be expected to pass the Air Law exam. If the school requires more than that, it's probably worth finding out what another school requires.
NB: Read posts by people who've actually done one or the other to assess how difficult or otherwise it is to convert your licence when you get home.
Heliport
Better still, click here
Your question has been asked many times before, because of the cost savings. There's a lot of information on that link which will help you decide between the different opinions expressed.
The majority view, in no particular order, seems to be:
Training is a lot cheaper in America, but take into account flight and accommodation costs when you decide where to train.
Don't expect to obtain your PPL(H) in the three weeks many fixed-wing schools advertise - allow for additional accommodation costs.
Wherever you train, you're unlikely to obtain your PPL in the minimum hours. Work on the basis that you'll need at least 45 hours if you do a concentrated course; more if you spread the course over a longer period.
If you decide to learn in the US, do at least some of your ground exams before you go. They can be taken in the UK.
If you train in the US, choose a school which trains on the same type of helicopter as you expect to rent when you get back.
Completely disregard any claims you hear in the UK that training in American schools isn't as good. There's good and bad in both countries, just like everywhere else in the world.
You can fly in the UK on an FAA licence.
Every school in every country will require you to do a check ride before allowing you to rent. If you've trained abroad, a UK school will almost certainly require you to do a couple of hours or so in the local area with an instructor. You'll also be expected to pass the Air Law exam. If the school requires more than that, it's probably worth finding out what another school requires.
NB: Read posts by people who've actually done one or the other to assess how difficult or otherwise it is to convert your licence when you get home.
Heliport
Join Date: Jan 2003
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Don't know about the US part but I do know about AV8 Helicopters. I would not use them myself there are other helicopter companies in Kent local to you. PM me for more.
Join Date: Jan 2004
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I think it also boils down to a time issue. I did my PPL(H) in the US in 5 weeks, cost a lot less and had no trouble flying back in the UK with it.
Another option of coming to the US could be to use a school that offers JAA PPL.
There are pro's and con's of which ever way you do things, you just have to figure out what best fits your situation.
LB
Another option of coming to the US could be to use a school that offers JAA PPL.
There are pro's and con's of which ever way you do things, you just have to figure out what best fits your situation.
LB
Join Date: Jun 2003
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My recommendation is Dennis Kenyon at Shoreham Airport. (not too far from Kent, I commuted from Bexleyheath for 3 weeks) He'll give you one to one training, and he's not for 'profit' he's for making pilots.
PM me for more details if you like.
Kevin
PM me for more details if you like.
Kevin
Join Date: Jan 2004
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I liked the link which provided job advertisments, ten pounds to join, looks very simular to their own website design.
Will do you a deal, send me five pounds and I'll give you two job website links
Will do you a deal, send me five pounds and I'll give you two job website links
Join Date: Jun 2005
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Name choice is because I want Heli-Answers !!
I have the questions but not the answers !
Well I have more answers than I did, but still some more questions to be asked !
I don't think they ever stop !
Lightning_Boy
The fivers in the post !!
I have the questions but not the answers !
Well I have more answers than I did, but still some more questions to be asked !
I don't think they ever stop !
Lightning_Boy
The fivers in the post !!
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Helo training Aus Vs USA
Hi all.
I am hoping you may be able to shed some light.
I am about to commence my commercial helicopter licence & am trying to figure out where is the best place to do it.
My father was a Cheif flying instructor for helicopters and the flying/passion had rubbed off on to me and is something I couldnt shake if I wanted to.
Its something that I have always wanted to do and I know the type of helicopter I want to fly, a 300 type helo as I dont like the R22 ( not starting another thread on that ) and so that limits the schools, and also job prospects to start I bet.
I know I can always get endorsed in a 22 if need be.
I have a school in Oz that I am very interested and there is one in Florida also.
what are the pro's and con's for (learning & career ) flying in Oz vs USA?
Costs seem to be cheaper in the US when you convert the $$$.
BTW I am Australian.
Any and all advise appreciated on this subject.
Thanks
I am hoping you may be able to shed some light.
I am about to commence my commercial helicopter licence & am trying to figure out where is the best place to do it.
My father was a Cheif flying instructor for helicopters and the flying/passion had rubbed off on to me and is something I couldnt shake if I wanted to.
Its something that I have always wanted to do and I know the type of helicopter I want to fly, a 300 type helo as I dont like the R22 ( not starting another thread on that ) and so that limits the schools, and also job prospects to start I bet.
I know I can always get endorsed in a 22 if need be.
I have a school in Oz that I am very interested and there is one in Florida also.
what are the pro's and con's for (learning & career ) flying in Oz vs USA?
Costs seem to be cheaper in the US when you convert the $$$.
BTW I am Australian.
Any and all advise appreciated on this subject.
Thanks
Join Date: Nov 2002
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Most pilots here would(I think) say " Do the license where you intend to live and fly". Whether private or commercial that makes good sense.
Private.... You will be learning the rules and regs, area, airspace etc of the area you intend to fly in and you will have the school to fall back on when questions crop up down the line. And they will.
Commercial.. Same as above but also thge people you meet and the contacts you make whilst doing your training will most likely stay with you for the rest of your career. Keep that in mind when deciding wich school to choose and how you are going to conduct yourself whilst learning.
Private.... You will be learning the rules and regs, area, airspace etc of the area you intend to fly in and you will have the school to fall back on when questions crop up down the line. And they will.
Commercial.. Same as above but also thge people you meet and the contacts you make whilst doing your training will most likely stay with you for the rest of your career. Keep that in mind when deciding wich school to choose and how you are going to conduct yourself whilst learning.