Training, hours building and first job prospects in America

[abigstep]

Thanks

Just to say thanks to those who have responded so far but would still like to hear more people's views.

Will be speaking to HAI today / tomorrow and then probabaly more research!!

But agree a visit is definetely the right way to go and would be looking to do this before I make any commitment. If I come out it would be good to meet up with you R1TAMER.

[The Ferret]

Over 40 aircraft!

Abigstep - there is some good advice here on this thread - and you have already heard that HAI went through a patch earlier this year where student numbers were challenging the resources of helicopters and instructors. I think it's working pretty well now - but I would say that wouldn't I - I just happen to run the JAA flying operation here in Florida! We have over 40 helicopters now with a similar number of instructors both on the FAA and JAA side - we also succesfully run a military training programme! The school is still expanding - Gordy's advice was sound earlier.

If you decide to come over and see us I will be pleased to meet you and answer all your course related questions. As far as jobs go after you are qualified - there are normally a few advertisements at any one time on our notice board for companies looking for pilots of varying experience!

Good luck with your decision. We look forward to seeing you out here!

The Ferret

[andyhelo]

Im travelling out mid-december to HAI to see what the school is all about, as im mid-way through my ATPL's. I tried to get there earlier this year, but planes got cancelled and that had a knock on effect. What ive heard about HAI has all been positive, but it would put my mind to ease to find out what all the raving is all about and to see if they can accomodate my needs.
Andyhelo

[Check 6]

HAI is a class operation

I visited HAI two weeks ago and left very impressed. Gordy and The Ferret were excellent hosts.

Cheers,

Check 6

[helicam]

HAI is a great school I was lucky enough to get hired as an instructor in the good old days of San Francisco.

I have recommended the school to many people over the years and have on the whole received good feedback.

Although I have also heard of the frustrations of students who are taking an unacceptably long time to complete their courses due to aircraft and instructors

Complaining is a real no no as that carrot of being hired will vanish if one was to complain about poor customer service

Although I have moved onto bigger stuff and I am not really in the training market anymore. I am confused as to where all the HAI candidates that are from the UK go when their J1 finishes

The UK instructor market seems full of chaps that have done all their training in the UK.

Visiting the bazaars such as Ascot Silverstone also doesn’t seem to be showing any new fresh-faced HAI graduates

Where do they all go???

[Gordy]

HAI graduates are flying all over the world. We have 9 at CHC in coast guard operations in Ireland alone.

Complaining is a real no no as that carrot of being hired will vanish if one was to complain about poor customer service

I disagree. Patrick, The Feret, and myself all have open doors. ANY student who has an issue is free to bring it to our attention. I know of many people who "complained" and were subsequently hired. In fact, just in the last few weeks, there have been issues raised which were subsequently dealt with. Like most organizations there will be problems which get overlooked, and all it takes is for the problem to be brought to our attention.

[Simon853]

I suspect that a lot of them return to the UK, and back to their old jobs as they can't afford to take a year off work, pay a fortune in living costs and do the ATPLs and get JAA qualified.

Surely that's not an issue, as HAI's JAA course covers ATPL examinations and culminates in the JAA qualification, does it not? (i.e. it is a CAA recognised JAA course, not an FAA course taught to the JAA syllabus, as other places Stateside do.)

Still, where'd they all go is a valid question. However, I think every school in the UK I've spoken to has had good things to say about HAI. Most seem to know HAI graduates somewhere within the UK industry, and many have said they'd have no qualms about employing them. (Though many said they'd prefer a bit of UK flight experience, which is one reason why I'm now doing my PPL in the UK, and then hopefully going to HAI eventually to do the CPL, FI, etc. )

Si

[Pontious]

R44 JAR PPL(H) Training in the Orlando area.

Hi Guys and Gals,
Can anyone recommend any good training schools for JAR PPL(H) on the R44 in the Orlando, Florida area?
Thanks in advance for any forthcoming posts or PMs.
Cheers
Ponsh.

[wesp]

Only HAI in Titusville does JAA(H) training. They don't have a R-44 though.

[Islandcrazy]

Looking for heli-school in Miami

Hi folks,

I need to locate a decent heli school in the Miami area for a few hours flying and an annual R44 check-ride. I have searched on the internet but need some assistance please?

Thanks

IC

[IntheTin]

Check your PM's Islandcrazy.
Heliflight in Fort Lauderdale has what you need.

[anti-talk]

Heli School in South Florida

Check your PM please
Geoff

[willybear]

Hi

I have used Ocean helicopters in the past. They are based at North County Airport Approx 1Hr 30Min Drive from Miami. PM me if you want more details.

Willy

[funfinn2000]

R44 !!

First of all IC make sure the school yo choose actually has a R44 and an Examiner on staff or available close by , you do'nt want to be waiting around for an examiner .

Finn.

[Islandcrazy]

Thanks

Thanks folks for the help I really appreciate it.

IC

[Geordie-rider]

Islandcrazy

I have also used Ocean helicopters at F45. Had a great time and would recommend them to anyone else. They have a 44.

Not too sure how far it is from Miami....a few hours by car!

Geordie

[anti-talk]

Do you need an examiner to do a BFR????

[Heliport]

Beware:

• Not all 'recommendations' are as independent as they might appear.
• Some schools register with PPRuNe, trawl these threads for names and then send PMs or e-mails offering their services.

In both cases, it's worth checking previous posts - which will be listed under Profile.


Heliport

[Ewe Turn]

Bell47 sfh Florida

G'day All

Does anyone know if there are any flight schools in the Florida / Georgia area that operate a Bell 47 for self fly hire? With or without an instructor.

Thanks in advance

ET

[Flying Lawyer]

You'll probably find the information on or via these sites:

Bell 47 Helicopter Association
Look under 'FlightSchools and Helicopter Services'

Flying the 47



You'll need to check that the operators offer Instruction and/or SFH. Some operators use them for sightseeing flights only.

Hope you find one. Flying a Bell 47 is a wonderful experience, and there's something special about flying a helicopter which made one of most significant contributions in the history of rotary aviation.