Learn about the career path of a professional helicopter pilot. From becoming a certified flight instructor, to flying charter. You can learn more here: http://www.flyhaa.com/helicopter-pilot-career-path/

1. CAREER PATHof a Professional Helicopter Pilot
FLIGHT TRAINING
Training Summary
Start by getting your professional
pilot certificates and ratings from a
flight training school.
Take special courses to build skills
that are in high demand.
After training,you need 1,000 to
1,500 hours of flight time, an
insurance requirement at most
companies.
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FLY FOR A TOUR OPERATOR
200+ Hours
HELICOPTER
FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR
Career Summary
Must have at least 50 hours in a
Robinson R22 helicopter to instruct due
to the SFAR 73 regulation.
Get paid for instructing while building
your flight hours to move on to the next
step in your career.
Once you’ve gotten enough flight time
as an instructor,you’ll typically move on
to a career in tour operations.
1-2 Years
Career Summary
Fly for a tour operator in the Grand Canyon,
Las Vegas,Alaska,or other scenic tourist
destinations.
Continue improving your skills while flying a
consistent,pre-determined route with few
variables.
Gain another 1000-1500 hours of turbine
helicopter experience.
Tour Operations
PINNACLE INDUSTRY PILOT
Career Summary
These industries are often viewed as the pinnacle
and are desired by many pilots.
They require the most experience because of the
challenging environments in which they operate.
Pilots must possess the skill and experience to
adequately manage and make the best decisions in
unpredictable situations.
Aerial Firefighting
Law Enforcement
Heavy-Lift Operations
ADVANCED
INDUSTRY PILOT
Career Summary
Requires a more advanced pilot
with sufficient experience.
Must be able to adapt to
changing conditions and
respond quickly in challenging
environments.
Charter
Corporate Transport
Offshort Support
Electronic News
Gathering (ENG)
Helicopter Emergency
Medical Services (HEMS)
Utility Operations