Commercial Pilot
As a commercial pilot you can work and earn money as a professional pilot
How to become a commercial pilot
Have at least a private pilot certificate
Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English
Obtain a FAA medical certificate
Pass an FAA written commercial knowledge test
Pass an FAA commercial oral and practical flight test (Check ride)
Reference: FAR §61.129
Aeronautical experience requirements
100 hours in powered aircraft, of which 50 hours must be in helicopters
100 hours of pilot-in-command flight time, which includes at least 35 hours in helicopters
20 hours of dual instruction
10 hours solo flight time
5 hours night time
Reference: FAR §61.129
Helicopter training costs
Before starting Commercial Pilot training Private Pilot and Instrument Rating will be obtained.
Commercial Pilot Certificate - minimum FAA requirements §61.109
$23,850
pay as you go - no prior payment- 30 hours dual - $580 per hour - $17,400
- 10 hours solo - $550 per hour - $5,500
- FAA Written Exam - $150
- Practical test - $800
Pay as you go
Some flight schools make you deposit money prior to flying, but Blue Hill Helicopters lets you start training right away and pay for lessons as you go.
You will pay the balance when you complete each flight lesson.
The cost of flight training is challenging to estimate because it is very dependent on the student. Frequent flying improves learning ability. Some people can understand and retain information faster than others. These factors all affect the total cost of flight training.