Flight Instruction

Our experienced flight instructors provide introductory flights for those seeking to take their first steps to becoming a pilot. They also offer dual instruction for students and qualified pilots who want to experience flying in Hawaii.

Is flying a helicopter difficult?

Yes, BUT it’s really only difficult at first. After learning and practicing the maneuvers and with experience, flying helicopters becomes like riding a bike, manageable and instinctive. At first, flying a helicopter can take some getting used to.

How long does it take to learn how do you fly a helicopter?

The FAA requires a minimum of 40 flight hours of instruction, of which at least 20 hours must be with an instructor and 10 hours must be solo. For most student pilots, 50 to 60 hours is more typical. Reaching that level of flight experience will take most people between six months and a year.

How different is flying a helicopter from flying an airplane?

In cruise flight, there is little difference between a helicopter and an airplane. Moving the stick left or right banks the helicopter, creating a horizontal component of lift that turns the aircraft, and pedals are used to align the nose of the helicopter with the direction of flight. The real difference is when your airspeed approaches zero: the take-off, the landing, and of course, the hover. Emergency procedures are entirely different as well and will require you to learn to manage and mitigate new risks that you have not faced before as a fixed-wing pilot.

What are the requirements to obtain a commercial helicopter license?

• Meet minimum age requirements (18)
• Hold a private pilot license.
• Hold FAA medical certificate.
• Complete ground instruction.
• Pass FAA written, oral and practical tests.
• Complete 20 hours of dual flight training.
• Complete one dual cross-country flight.