Helicopter from fixed wing

[Trojan1981]

I just started helicopter lessons this week. Going to PPL(H) only, but completing the CPL(H) exams. I already hold a CPL(A) and have a fair amount of experience as an Aircrewman in the military, but nothing could have prepared me for the experience of flying a helicopter myself.

I expected it to be very hard, and I have heard that fixed wing pilots often have trouble transitioning. So I studied the theory, watched the intro videos and practiced the co-ordinating actions (raise collective, left pedal etc.) to gain as much knowledge as I could before I started.

It was awesome! I HAVE THE BUG!

Just listening to what the instructor told me and understanding the theory, I picked it up quickly. I hovered, full control, in my first lesson- no bullst. It wasn't pretty, but it was reasonably stable and I had full control. The flight controls in an R22 seem a little more sensitive than those in a Pitts Special.
Fixed wing pilots don't know what they are missing out on. Those of you who do this for a living (except those who get shot at) are very, very fortunate.

[parabellum]

Wait until one pitch black night when it is blowing a gale of 80kts in heavy rain and you are called out to go to a rig that is in danger of tipping over and has to be evacuated, I'll be interested to see if you consider yourself 'fortunate' then!

[rumline]

Well...I've been doing offshore for the better part of 15yrs now and after going back and forth....forth and back...back and forth....
I live for nights like that!

[Trojan1981]

Parabellum
I wish, but I doubt I will ever fly helos for a living. I like challenging flying, which is why I have started learning helicopters. Something new to learn and enjoy. I'm loving it

Rumline
How is the S-76 to fly? When you progress to an aircraft with AFCS, are most of the secondary effects of control damped out?

[cTcPilot]

The best thing I love about my job as an airline pilot, is that, on my days off I can afford to fly the Fling Wing and I love EVERY minute of it!