What are the steps for opening a helicopter school?

Question

I am inquiring about how to start the business plan for opening a helicopter school in the state of Montana. What are the factors out there to consider etc... please give me any thoughts that you have. Everything will help at this point.

Answer 1

This is my ignorant 'average Joe' advice:

-First consider if there is actually a market for a helicopter school in that area.  Is there a shortage for that type of flight school, and are there enough people who would be interested in attending it?  

-Helicopters can potentially cost 1 million dollars or more.  Factor that into the initial and long term costs of the property, then decide whether or not your income from the students will match/overcome these financial setbacks on a long term and short term basis.  

-Montana is a pretty desolate in most areas, so you'll have to develop a very well planned out marketing strategy to lure people into it.  Maybe place ads in various flying magazines (primarily helicopter specific ones), and possibly in flight schools too.

-You should definitely look into the detailed insurance factors that are involved with this type of operation.  

Hope that helps, and good luck!