No formal qualifications are needed to be trained as a helicopter pilot and that includes previous flying experience. The ability to fly requires a lot of responsibility; therefore certain minimum requirements are laid down by law to qualify for a private pilot's licence. These include:

• a minimum age of 16 years;
• a valid flying medical; (An approved aviation medical doctor must do this, detail which can be supplied by us.)
• a valid restricted radio license; (Various radio courses are available, details which we can supply.)
• a valid student pilot license; (Presented at Wonderboom by Precision Aviation Services.)
• passing a written theoretical exam
• passing a practical skill test; (Presented at Wonderboom by Precision Aviation Services.)
• a minimum of 50 hours flight time of which 15 hours include solo flight.
• passing a language proficiency test.

Note 1: In order to qualify for entry to write the theoretical exams students have to attend formal ground lectures presented by Precision Aviation at Wonderboom. The theoretical classes are normally presented on weekends or during week days after hours.

Precision Aviation Services uses either the Schweizer 269C or Robinson R44 helicopters for training depending on the clients needs. These helicopters are used worldwide for training and recreational flying. Both helicopters are reliable and fairly cheap to operate and provide a very good foundation for ab initio helicopter training.

Yes, provided you did your training through us and your license is valid at all times. Should your license expire, or should you not have flown for a certain period of time we will arrange a dual check by one of our instructors or a renewal test.

That is totally up to you. Your individual circumstances, finances and work commitments will dictate the length of the course. A PPL can be done in a little as five weeks. We suggest that you fly regularly especially at the commencement of the course but be careful not to overdo it either. At this point please note that fifty hours is the minimum requirement but the actual hours flown depends on the individual's progress and ability. Our commitment is to provide a professional service but you will also be expected to have self-discipline and be conscientious. In this booklet you'll find a concise course layout.

Flying time is the cost accumulator. All flights are based on a hobbs meter, which is installed in the helicopter. This is basically an hour meter, which work with oil pressure. Thus you only pay for the time you actually spend flying. Payment must be done in advance for a minimum of five hours. Unfortunately no flights can be allowed if regular payments are not made.

Flying of a helicopter takes a reasonable amount of co-ordination and common sense but almost anybody can be taught to fly a helicopter. The course will take you through thirty logical exercises, which are like building bricks and makes the flying interesting, and fun.

The best way is to arrange a demonstration flight where you will be given the opportunity to manipulate the controls and experience the sensation of helicopter flying. Afterwards you can discuss the course with the instructor and hopefully all your questions will be answered. This introduction flight will form part of the total course.