How can I prepare for helicopter pilot's school?

Question

I'm going to start flying in the beginning of July, but I'd like to knwo what I can do now to prepare. I already know I need the Class III Medical and I'll need to apply for a loan. Can anyone think of anything else I can do? (I really appreciate the answers.)

Answer 1

You might think about browsing through some of the reading materials you will be studying. Don't try to learn it fully just yet (it's important to be taught properly by the instructor the first time), but instead get a feel for what knowledge is out there. Here are some examples:

FAA Rotorcraft Flying Handbook - This is the basic textbook for aerodynamics, flight controls, maneuvers, and emergencies.

http://www.faa.gov/library/manuals/aircr...

Federal Aviation Regulations - These are the rules you will follow as a pilot. It is a bit hard to study them without instructor guidance, but you might browse through parts 61 and 91.

http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/tex...

Aeronautical Information Manual - The AIM has a lot of good information about a variety of topics such as air traffic control, navigation aids, and weather reports. It too is a bit tough to dive into without some guidance, but you can try to get a feel for the sorts of topics you will be studying in your ground lessons.

http://www.faa.gov/airports_airtraffic/a...

Student Pilot Guide

http://www.faa.gov/library/manuals/aviat...

The following are very good sites dedicated to helicopters. Spend some time looking through them.

http://www.helicopterflight.net/

http://www.verticalreference.com/

http://www.justhelicopters.com/

I disagree with getting a headset because you won't have any idea what kind you will like. They are also very expensive ($300-$1000). The flight school will provide headsets, and you can usually borrow the various brands from other pilots to try them out. Once you get more familiar, then you can buy one if you wish.

Good luck and have fun!

Answer 2

Yes! Get a headset. Sportys.com or kingschools.com is good. Most schools have headsets you can wear, but they usually suck. The Bose Aviation Headset X and Lightspeed Zulu are both great headsets.

Answer 3

One thang that got to me was the jp5 fuel fume smell. The vibration and the practice autos. Other than that I was buzzin the whole time.