Private pilot certificate- PPL(H)
Train with Helicopter Academy to earn your private pilot license and experience the freedom of rotorcraft flight.
Our private helicopter license program (PPL(H)) combines focused private pilot training with experienced instructors to get you flying safely for leisure, business, or personal travel.
Why choose a private helicopter license?
With a private helicopter license (PPL(H)) you may act as Pilot in Command of a helicopter for non-commercial purposes: take family and friends on flights, rent aircraft, and enjoy private aviation. The private pilot certification is the foundation for any future career in rotorcraft — although it does not authorize paid flying (for that see our Commercial Helicopter Certificate).
Steps to earn your Private Pilot License (PPL(H))
- Obtain an FAA medical certificate (3rd Class or higher) from an FAA-authorized examiner. This also becomes your student pilot certificate.
- Complete private pilot training and pass the FAA written knowledge test.
- Fulfill the FAA minimum flight time and training requirements (detailed below).
- Pass the FAA practical test (oral and flight) with a Designated Pilot Examiner.
FAA minimums (Part 61) — PPL(H)
- 40 total flight hours (minimum) including at least 30 hours of flight instruction from an authorized instructor.
- 10 hours of solo flight time, including cross-country solo requirements.
- At least 3 hours of cross-country flight training in a helicopter.
- 3 hours of flight training in preparation for the practical test within 60 days of the test.
- Night and cross-country experience as required for the PPL(H) practical test.
Note: These are the FAA minimums. Most students require additional hours to reach proficiency. Our instructors tailor private pilot training to your experience, learning speed, and goals.
Student success
"I finished my PPL(H) at Helicopter Academy and was placed into my first flying job — the training prepared me for the real world." — Joshua Lang
Example pricing — Private Pilot (Robinson R-22) *
| Item | Per Hour | Total (example) |
|---|---|---|
| 30 Hours Flight Instruction | $400 | $12,000.00 |
| 10 Hours Solo Flight Time | $400 | $4,000.00 |
| Ground School / HeliGroundSchool.com | — | $500.00 |
| Books & Materials | — | $225.00 |
| Private written knowledge test | — | $100.00 |
| FAA Authorized Examiner's Fee | — | $600.00 |
| Medical | — | $150.00 |
| TOTAL (example) | $17,575.00 |
*Course price example based on standard prices fulfilling the FAA minimums. Average students typically require additional training. Verify current pricing at your preferred training location.