Private Helicopter Pilot Training (PPL-H)
The Private Helicopter Pilot training program at Helicopter Academy is built for new students who want to learn to fly safely and confidently. Through structured helicopter flying lessons and ground instruction, you will gain the skills required to earn your FAA Private Pilot Helicopter (PPL-H) license.
This is often the first major step in helicopter pilot training, whether your goal is recreational flying or a future helicopter career. For a broad overview of all programs, you can return to our helicopter training homepage.
What You Learn in Private Helicopter Lessons
- Basic helicopter aerodynamics and rotorcraft systems.
- Preflight inspections, safety checks and checklist discipline.
- Hovering, taxi, takeoff and landing techniques.
- Normal, abnormal and emergency procedures.
- Local area flying and cross-country navigation.
- Radio communication and airspace awareness.
Structure of Your Helicopter Flight Course
Your private helicopter flight course combines ground school with dual and solo flight time. Each helicopter lesson builds on the last, helping you progress from basic control to confident pilot-in-command.
| Training Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Ground School | Rotorcraft aerodynamics, systems, regulations, weather, weight & balance, performance. |
| Dual Helicopter Lessons | Instructor-guided helicopter flying lessons to develop control and safety. |
| Solo Flight | Supervised solo helicopter flight training to build confidence and experience. |
| Cross-Country Training | Planning and flying routes to meet FAA PPL-H requirements. |
| Checkride Preparation | Mock oral and flight exams so you are ready for the FAA practical test. |
Timeline & Requirements for PPL-H
Most students complete their Private Helicopter Pilot training in 3–6 months, depending on training frequency, weather and study pace. FAA minimums specify the least amount of flight time required, but many pilots choose extra helicopter lessons to feel fully prepared.
- Meet or exceed FAA minimum flight hours for PPL-H.
- Pass the FAA Private Pilot Helicopter written exam.
- Pass the FAA oral and practical checkride.
Next Steps After Private Helicopter Training
Many pilots continue from PPL-H into Commercial Helicopter Pilot training (CPL-H) and eventually into our Career Helicopter Pilot & CFI program . Together, these helicopter training steps can take you from your first flight to a professional helicopter pilot career.
You can also compare all programs on our helicopter flight training courses page.
Start Your Private Helicopter Pilot Training
Our team can help you estimate helicopter training costs, schedule helicopter lessons, and choose the best start date for your PPL-H helicopter flight course.