Chicago Helicopter

Flight training will be done in a new 2007 Robinson R22 Beta II helicopter. The R-22 is a classic example of design excellence. No other helicopter in its class can match its speed and reliability. Read More »

The first step for any pilot is obtaining their private license.

The following course description is based on the FAA minimum requirements. The national average is 60-70 hours of flight time.

These times can vary based on individual ability.

• 30 hours dual flight instruction 250/hr = $7,500
• 10 hours solo flight 230/hr =$2,300
• 30 hours ground instruction 30/hr =$900
• Total =$10,700

Complete pricing information can be found in the Flight Academy section.

Helicopter Pilot Career Information

Commercial helicopter pilots most often begin their career as a Certified Flight Instructor. Our CFI program teaches students the necessary flight and ground skills to provide the safest flight instruction of the highest quality. The R22 is the most popular helicopter used in flight training. In 1995 the FAA passed a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR-73) that requires 200 hours of helicopter flight time to instruct in an R22.

Find out more in the Helicopter Careers section.

Private License Requirements

• 17 years of age.
• Endorsement from Certified Flight Instructor
• Pass FAA Private Pilot Helicopter Knowledge exam
• Pass FAA Private Pilot Helicopter Practical test
• Written endorsement from your Flight Instructor
• A minimum of 40 hours of flight time that consists of training with a Certified Flight Instructor and solo flights
• Ground School
• Read, write, speak and understand English
• Hold at least an FAA Third Class medical Certificate
• U.S. citizen or government approva

Find out more about pilot requirements .