Helicopter piloting?

Question

I was thinking about my future and what I would like my profession to be, and I've narrowed it down to 4 things, one of which is a helicopter pilot.

I was just wondering if there are any pilots out there that could tell me the pros and cons of this job, and how to get started.

Thanks in advance

Answer 1

Hi:

I have been a commercial helicopter pilot for over 17 year and I still ove every moment of it.  

The market for pilots has never been as great as it is now. While the airline industry seems to be struggling almost all of the time, the helicopter industry is continuing to grow rapidly, as is the demand for experienced pilots.

This is also the hardest part for new pilots. Until you get about 1,000 hours of flight experience (most new pilots become instructors to do so) there are not many jobs you will be able to apply for.

After crossing the 1,000 hour hurdle many choose to fly for one of the many offshore operators that operate helicopters for the oil industry. Starting salaries vary according to experience but start in the low 50's for a 1,000 hr pilot.

The only cons I can think of are the high training cost and the relatively low wages when you have little or no experience.

Helicopter pilot starter jobs i.e. flight instruction pays as low as $20,000 to $40,000 per year - EMS (Emergency medical) between $50,000-75,000 per year. News between $50,000 and $85 000 A captain on a 2 crew IFR aircraft can top out at $150,000 in a corporate or offshore envirnonment.

Here is the most accurate website for helicopter pilot salaries

http://www.helicoptersalaries.com/pay_sc...

Take a look at some excellent forums that may answer additional questions for you:

http://www.rotorwingflight.com

http://www.verticalreference.com

Here are some links to FREE books at the FAA website that may be helpful to you

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

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

Best of luck!

BTW . Avoid - justhelicopters.com

Verticalreference.com is owend by the same guy but a much better site.

Answer 2

Go to justhelicopters.com

Answer 3

It all depends what you want to do. Are you into tourism, emergency , instructing, or coast guard? I suggest you go to a flight school. Ask about getting an introductory flight and see if you are willing to invest time and $ to get a helicopter rating. If you like it, go for it. There are always going to be ups and downs but if you really love it, the pros will be grater.

Good luck!