Helicopter
ATP License:

Course Content

The training for the Helicopter ATP license is rigorous, ensuring that pilots are equipped with advanced knowledge and skills.

• Ground School:
  • Helicopter Aerodynamics: Deep dive into the principles that make helicopter flight possible.
  • Flight Systems: Understand advanced systems present in modern helicopters.
  • FAA Regulations: A thorough overview of relevant FAA rules and regulations.
  • Advanced Navigation Techniques: Focus on instrument navigation, GPS systems, and long-distance helicopter travel.
  • Emergency Procedures: Equip pilots with knowledge to handle critical in-flight emergencies.
• Flight Training:
  • General Operations
  • Emergency Operations
  • Instrument Procedures
  • Cross-Country Flights
  • Night Operations

You can expect approximately 7-10 hours of flight training in a Robinson R44 helicopter if you are familiar with the R44. If you are not familiar with the R44 and have no previous experience, you may require additional hours.

How to Obtain the Helicopter ATP License

After fulfilling prerequisites and covering course content, the process to the license is as follows:

• Select an Appropriate Training Provider: ATP.Academy offers an in-house Helicopter ATP program, utilizing the state-of-the-art Robinson R44 helicopter and highly professional instructors who have provided over 1,000 hours of training
• Complete the Training: Successfully finish both ground school and flight training sessions.
• Pass the FAA Written Examination: A computer-based test to assess theoretical knowledge.
• Schedule and Pass the Checkride: The final evaluation, comprising an oral exam and flight test with an FAA-designated examiner.
• License Issuance: Upon checkride success, the FAA will grant the Helicopter ATP license.

ATP Pilots with an Airplane Rating: Adding a Helicopter Rating

For pilots who already possess an ATP certificate with an airplane category and are looking to add a rotorcraft category and helicopter class, the requirements under Part 61.165(a) are:

• Eligibility: Meet the eligibility requirements of § 61.153.
• Knowledge Test: Pass a knowledge test on the aeronautical knowledge areas of § 61.155(c).
• Requirements: Comply with the requirements in § 61.157(b), if appropriate.
• Aeronautical Experience: Meet the applicable aeronautical experience requirements of § 61.161.
• Practical Test: Pass the practical test on the areas of operation of § 61.157(e)(4).

The ATP Helicopter Checkride

The ATP Helicopter Checkride, often referred to as the practical test, is a comprehensive evaluation that consists of two segments: the oral examination and the flight test. The applicant’s knowledge and skills are thoroughly assessed against the ATP Practical test standards for Helicopter:

Oral Examination: This section tests the applicant’s aeronautical knowledge. Topics covered may include:

• Aircraft systems and limitations.
• Weather interpretation and decision-making.
• FAA regulations relevant to ATP operations.
• Operational procedures and best practices.
• Scenario-based questions on flight planning and decision-making.

Flight Test: The flight portion of the checkride evaluates practical proficiency in various areas:

• Preflight Preparation: Including aircraft inspection, weight and balance calculations, and performance charts.
• Preflight Procedures: Cockpit management, aircraft systems checks, and weather assessment.
• Takeoffs and Landings: Demonstrating proficiency in normal, crosswind, short field, and confined area takeoffs and landings.
• In-flight Maneuvers: Including steep turns, power failure procedures, and autorotation.
• Emergency Operations: Handling of system failures, emergency descents, and simulated engine failures.
• Instrument Procedures: Including instrument approaches, holding procedures, and partial-panel flying.
• Post-flight Procedures: Including debrief, securing the aircraft, and post-flight checks.

Throughout the flight test, the examiner will be observing the applicant’s airmanship, situational awareness, decision-making skills, and adherence to ATP standards. Critical to passing is not just the physical handling of the aircraft, but also the ability to make sound decisions, especially when faced with unexpected challenges or emergency scenarios.