Private Helicopter Add-On Rating

(for Fixed-Wing Pilots)
Make the Transition from Airplane to Helicopter – Seamlessly and Professionally

Let our experienced instructors guide you through a focused, efficient program to earn your Private Pilot Helicopter rating. Designed specifically for fixed-wing pilots, this add-on path emphasizes safety, skill, and confidence in the rotorcraft environment.

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FAA Regulatory Requirements

Per 14 CFR §§ 61.75, 61.87, and 61.109(c)

To add a rotorcraft–helicopter rating to your existing FAA airplane certificate, you must meet:

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Minimum Flight Training Time:

• 40 hours total helicopter time, including:

  • 20 hours of dual instruction with an authorized instructor

  • 10 hours of solo helicopter flight

 

 Ground Training:

• Comprehensive instruction in helicopter-specific topics:

  • Helicopter aerodynamics, systems, and performance

  • FAA regulations, airspace, navigation, and emergency procedures

  • Helicopter-specific weather considerations

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FAA Testing:​

• Pass the FAA Practical Test (Checkride) with an FAA-designated examiner

• No written test is required if you hold another certificate at the same level

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Medical Certificate:

• Hold at least a current FAA third-class medical​

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What’s Included in Your Training

• Rotorcraft-specific flight instruction with a focus on fixed-wing transitions

•  Ground school covering helicopter systems, performance, regulations, and airspace

•  Use of Robinson  R44, depending on your training goals

•  FAA checkride readiness

•  One-on-one instruction with CFIs experienced in add-on training​

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Why Choose Our Add-On Program?

• Instructors with real-world fixed-wing-to-rotorcraft transition experience

•  Training modeled after Part 141 standards, delivered under flexible Part 61 rules

•  Modern aircraft and IFR-certified R44 platform available

•  Efficient, professional curriculum designed for licensed pilots​

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Ready to expand your pilot credentials into rotorcraft?
Contact us today to begin your helicopter add-on training and receive a personalized flight plan that fits your schedule and experience.

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 Commercial Pilot Helicopter Add-On

(for Fixed-Wing Pilots)

Designed for Fixed-Wing Pilots Advancing Their Rotorcraft Qualifications

 This program is structured to meet FAA minimum hour requirements under 14 CFR Part 61
Actual flight hours may vary based on your proficiency, transition ease, and prior helicopter experience.

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FAA Regulatory Requirements (14 CFR § 61.129(c)(3))

To add a Commercial Pilot – Rotorcraft/Helicopter rating to an existing fixed-wing certificate, the FAA requires:

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Flight Experience Requirements:

• 150 hours total time (combined airplane and helicopter)

• 50 hours must be in helicopters, including:

  • 20 hours of dual instruction with an authorized instructor

    • Includes a 2-hour day cross-country >50 NM

    • A 2-hour night cross-country flight

    • 10 hours of instrument training (up to 5 hrs. in an FAA-approved simulator)

  • 10 hours solo or PIC (if rated), including:

    • One 3-hour cross-country

    • 5 hours of night with 10 takeoffs/landings

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Ground Training:

• Commercial-level instruction on systems, regulations, flight planning, weather, navigation, and aerodynamics

• Preparation for the FAA  checkride

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 FAA Testing:

• Pass the Commercial Helicopter Written Knowledge Exam

       (only required if you do not already hold a certificate at the Commercial level)

• Pass the FAA Commercial Practical Test (Checkride)

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Medical Certificate:

• Must hold at least a Third - Class FAA Medical for Checkride

• Must hold at least a Second-Class FAA Medical Certificate to Exercise the privileges

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Ground Instruction Options

• Ground Instruction with CFI

• One-on-one prep and oral exam coaching available on request

• Online and in-person options for maximum flexibility

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Why Choose Our Commercial Add-On Program?

• Instructors experienced in airplane-to-rotorcraft transitions

• FAA-compliant curriculum tailored for commercial add-on requirements

• Training modeled after Part 141 structure, delivered under flexible Part 61

• IFR-capable R44 available for advanced training and time-building

• Efficient, professional, and safety-focused approach​

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Elevate your pilot credentials and expand your aviation career with our Commercial Helicopter Add-On program.
Contact us today to get started with a personalized training plan that fits your schedule and goals