What is involved in the ground theory courses?
The first two weeks of the course will entail structured classes and studying towards the six theory subjects required for your PPL. Presently there is a requirement that four of the six be completed prior to going solo.
How long is the course?
If you are looking to complete a Commercial Pilots Licence, the full time course is structured to take one year. However, most students can comfortably finish within a 10-month period. A Private Pilots Licence course full time would look at taking approximately three months. All courses can be done on a part time basis as well. It is then up to the individual how long they take although there are some requirements where time limits are applicable. Contact us for more information.
Are loans and allowances available?
Currently student loans and allowances are available for any NZ Citizen or permanent resident that has been here for at least two years. However, changes are being considered by the NZ Government as to whether or not this continues in its current form. Details should be released mid to late 2004 as to what will happen for the 2005 year.
Is Previous Flight Experience Considered?
Yes, all previous rotary flying experience can be used towards your PPL/CPL licence. This includes any valid flying completed overseas in another country which is a member of ICAO. You may also be able to credit some fixed wing flying but this will need to be considered on a case by case basis and will depend on how recent the flight experience is.
Licence Conversions?
In most cases around the world the licence obtained in one country does not automatically transfer over. However, the NZ licence is easily converted to an Australian licence. With other countries it does vary and is a case of investigating each for their requirements. NZ pilots are thought of very highly in regards to the quality of training, by countries around the world and you will find that the training requirements in NZ are fairly high compared to most other countries. We can assist you in trying to work through the mountains of information in regards to licence conversions for most countries.
How Do I Get Started?
All you need to do is to contact us by email or telephone and we can arrange for an information pack to be sent out immediately. Once we have received the completed application form back we will then arrange for an interview and proceed from there. Anyone interested in flight training is most welcome to visit our premises to check out our facility, view our aircraft and ask any further questions they may have before placing their application.
Is It Hard To Fly A Helicopter?
Our response is NO, but it does take time. Some people will take longer than others to master certain aspects but everyone has the ability to learn. It does come down to attitude, passion and patience but if you work hard enough there is no reason why you can not fly a helicopter and experience the freedom it provides.
What Employment Opportunities Are There?
They do exist contrary to what people may tell you. However, it may not be easy and most budding pilots will more than likely start off as ground crew, providing support for the pilot, loading and unloading aircraft, answering phones and so on. This work is equally important, as the pilot can not survive without his/her ground crew. It also allows you to gain that much needed experience working around and with helicopters. Our previous students have gone on to find employment, some as ground crew and some in the pilot?s seat straight away. As with life, anything worthwhile has to be worked hard for. The outlook is encouraging for people with passion and the right attitude, especially if you are prepared to venture off overseas.
International Students.
With the NZ dollar being below the US, the cost of helicopter training in NZ is very favorable and can save thousands of dollars compared to training elsewhere. With our differing terrain and changeable weather patterns it also makes it a very good training ground for helicopter pilots, hence NZ?s reputation for producing world class pilots. Having trained many International students to date, we have built up a knowledge base of the difficulties experienced by overseas students coming to study and train in NZ. We want to make the process of moving to NZ as easy and enjoyable as possible and in partnership with the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology, we can help assist with everything from arranging the all important student visa which allows you to legally train in NZ, to locating suitable accommodation, and advising on the cost of living and expenses you may be faced with.
Frequently Asked Question?s
