The training to become a
helicopter private pilot PPL(H) (m/w/d)

Fulfill your dream of flying a helicopter!

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  • More than 61 years of experience
  • AOC licence
  • Part-ORA certification
  • Available all over the world
  • Full service
  • At home in the air

GET YOUR PILOT'S LICENCE

Flying a helicopter is an experience. One that you can experience for yourself! AIR LLOYD only employs experienced flight instructors who prove their flying skills in demanding conditions day after day, and pass on their expertise succinctly and understandably. In other words, not only do we apply our expertise to the training itself, but, above all, we also know what’s essential in day-to-day flying.

PPL(H)

Make your dream of flying a reality

More than 61 years of experience

Founded in 1963, AIR LLOYD has been training helicopter pilots since the very beginning

Countless successful graduates

We also attach great importance to training of international students and authorities

Flight instructors with practical experience only

Experienced flight instructors at both flight operation sites – Halle-Oppin and Bonn Hangelar

Flexible learning: eAcademy

Our theoretical training can also be completed as a distance learning course

Part-ORA certification

Naturally AIR LLOYD is certified as a training organisation by the German Federal Aviation Authority (Luftfahrt-Bundesamt)

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General requirements for PPL(H)

  • Minimum age: 16 at the start of training and 17 to sit the licence exam (underage students also require a declaration of consent from their legal guardian)
  • Proof of identity in the form of a copy of your ID card or passport
  • Two current passport photos
  • Certificate of attendance on a 'First Aid' or 'Emergency Measures at the Scene of an Accident' course, or a copy of a valid driving licence
  • Class 2 aviation medical certification
  • Background check pursuant to § 7 of the German Aviation Security Act
  • Current excerpt from the central traffic register
  • Declaration on pending criminal proceedings
  • You do not need the BZF II radiotelephony certificate before starting your training at AIR LLOYD as it is integrated into the course.

Request helicopter private pilot training now

Or just give us a call: +49 (0)22 41 / 23 07-0

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Training content and costs

Theory

The theoretical part of the private pilot training can be completed either as part of a closed course over eight weekends, or as a flexible individual training course with individually agreed appointments.

At least 100 hours must be completed, covering the following fields:

  • 010 Aviation legislation
  • 021 General aircraft knowledge
  • 022 Instruments
  • 031 Mass and centre of gravity
  • 033 Flight planning and monitoring
  • 034 Flight performance
  • 040 Human performance capacity
  • 050 Meteorology
  • 061 General navigation
  • 062 Radio navigation
  • 070 Operational procedures
  • 082 Aerodynamics
  • 090 Radio communication
Two people in blue shirts are looking at a clipboard.

Practice

In the practical part of the training, appointments are determined individually and according to your own personal schedule. In total, we recommend a training period of approximately 6 months.

  • A total of at least 45 flight hours
  • Of which at least 25 hours with a flight instructor
  • Of which at least 10 hours in solo flight

Request helicopter private pilot training now

Or just give us a call: +49 (0)22 41 / 23 07-0

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What sets us apart from other flight schools

Additional in-person instruction at AIR LLOYD flight school

In the PPL(H) private pilot training program, regulations only require 10% of the 100 hours of distance learning to be conducted in person. However, at AIR LLOYD, we offer 35 hours of in-person instruction—a significant advantage that helps you better understand the material and prepare optimally for practical training.

Comfortable accommodation at our training locations

Another benefit at AIR LLOYD: At our locations in Bonn/Hangelar (EDKB) and Halle/Oppin (EDAQ), we offer modern pilot apartments upon request. This allows you to fully focus on your pilot training without having to worry about accommodation.

Request helicopter private pilot training now

Or just give us a call: +49 (0)22 41 / 23 07-0

[...] A really very practical training course that goes well beyond the requirements of the exam [...]
Christian Rudolph

[...] The flight instructors endeavor not only to prepare the student for the test, but also pass on as much of their own experience as possible.

Helicopter in the hangar

The procedure on how to become a professional pilot PPL(H)

  1. The theoretical part of the training can be completed either as part of a course over six weekends, or as a flexible individual training course with individually agreed appointments. At least 100 teaching hours are required to cover the mandatory subject areas.
  2. The practical part of the training is based around individual appointments with you. We recommend a training period of approximately 6 months.
  3. The theoretical exam takes place at the appropriate national aviation authority. Overland solo flights are only possible once you have successfully passed the theoretical exam.
  4. Once you have completed the required teaching hours and feel ready, you will sit the practical exam with a recognised FE(H) examiner.
  5. The PPL(H) licence entitles you to pilot or co-pilot non-commercial helicopters.

We are happy to answer any further questions you may have about the scope and validity of the licence, prerequisites, training procedure and costs!

Request helicopter private pilot training now

Or just give us a call: +49 (0)22 41 / 23 07-0

Do you want to start a career as a professional helicopter pilot? Find out more and fly to your dream job with AirLloyd.

 

become a helicopter pilot - AIR LLOYD flight school

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Helicopter services

AIR LLOYD has stood for quality and efficiency for over 61 years for quality and efficiency in the helicopter sector.

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Navigation equipment for flights

Relief for holders of PPL(A)/(AS) or LAPL(A)/(H)/(S) licences

Theory

Since you have already learnt most of the theoretical content to acquire your existing licence, the theoretical training can be greatly shortened if approved by the German Federal Aviation Authority (Luftfahrt-Bundesamt). As a rule, you will only need to cover the helicopter-specific content and refresh your knowledge of certain other topics, for example:

  • General aircraft technology & systems
  • Aerodynamics
  • Behaviour in specific situations
  • Navigation - with theoretical exam
AIR LLOYD flight school

Practice

In addition to the theoretical relief, current regulations also include an allowance for flight hours completed in other aircraft. This allows you to carry over up to 6 flight hours to your practical training. Another exception is eligible flight experience acquired under a LAPL(H) licence - in this case, the required flight hours may be further reduced.

Conclusion: for holders of PPL(A)/(AS) or LAPL (A)/(H)/(S) licences, the legal requirements for PPL(H) training are only 39 flight hours instead of 45.

Request helicopter private pilot training now

Or just give us a call: +49 (0)22 41 / 23 07-0

FAQ Flight school
Frequently asked questions about helicopter pilot training

What is the difference between PPL (H), CPL (H) and ATPL (H)?

PPL(H) is the abbreviation for Private Pilot License, the pilot's license for private pilots. The H in brackets behind it stands for Helicopter. CPL(H), the Commercial Pilot License, describes the pilot's license for professional pilots. The pilot training for helicopters ATPL(H), Airline Transport Pilot License, stands for the training to become a commercial pilot specializing in helicopters. After passing the examination, the CPL(H) training enables you to fly a helicopter with a pilot as a pilot or co-pilot. After completing ATPL(H) pilot training, you will be able to fly helicopters with more than one pilot as a pilot or co-pilot. You will also receive a type rating for MEH (Multi Engine Helicopter). This additional rating can only be obtained in the CPL(H) pilot training course by attending an extra course

What additional qualifications do I need to train as a professional helicopter pilot?

In contrast to flight training to become a commercial pilot ATPL(H), which can be completed directly after obtaining the private pilot license PPL(H), prior knowledge is required for flight training to become a commercial pilot CPL(H). This amounts to at least 155 flight hours as well as knowledge in the fields of mathematics and physics. Further information on the requirements can be found here or you can obtain it in a personal interview with one of our experienced employees on site by appointment or by telephone on 034 604 309 14.

Knowledge of mathematics and physics is also required for ATPL(H) pilot training. In addition, you must be able to speak English. Do you have little or no knowledge of English? No problem, AIR LLOYD offers language tests for all levels.

Is it possible to do a trial flight beforehand?

It is possible to take a trial flight at any time. During this flight you can see whether you like flying.
However, it is not possible for the instructor to assess your suitability during this short period. This can be recognized after the first 5-10 flying hours.

How long does helicopter pilot training take?

Are you aiming to obtain a PPL(H) private pilot's license? This requires at least 100 hours of instruction in various theoretical subjects. These can be completed over eight weekends or in the form of individual training. As a flight school, we recommend a training period of eight months for the practical part. During your pilot training, you can collect your flying hours with one of our experienced flight instructors. It is particularly important to the AIR LLOYD team to prepare you optimally for the exam.

The theory part of the CPL(H) commercial pilot training consists of at least 250 hours of instruction and an additional 60 hours of close-up instruction. The theory part of the ATPL(H) helicopter pilot training is more extensive. In this case, as a student pilot, you will complete at least 550 hours of instruction and a further 85 hours of close-up instruction. The practical part of both flight training courses is identical.

Which helicopter models can I fly after the training?

Which helicopter models you are allowed to fly depends entirely on the type ratings you have acquired. If you have not yet acquired any additional qualifications, you may fly the helicopter model in which you have passed your test. As an Approved Training Organization, we are of course trained and authorized to qualify you to fly other helicopter models.

How much does helicopter training cost?

Of course, the cost of your pilot training depends entirely on the type and scope of your desired goal. For example, if you already have previous knowledge or a private pilot's license and you would now like to train as a commercial pilot, the costs for flight training will be lower. Contact us and we will talk to you individually about your ideas and goals.

Are there any financing options?

Unfortunately not through the flight schools or flight companies.
As a rule, the financing models are secured by training loans or family loans.

What jobs can I take up after obtaining my commercial pilot's license?

Everyone has the dream of turning their hobby into a career. As a professional pilot, you can fulfill this dream. As a flight school, we are happy to take on the task of training you to become a highly trained helicopter pilot. Getting a job as a helicopter pilot in the private sector depends entirely on the current job market. As a helicopter company, we are also interested in having you join our team after your training.

What are the chances of being employed by you after the apprenticeship?

Vacancies regularly arise and these are primarily filled by graduates of our ATO.
These have been standardized during their training and we already know their flying skills.

Where and for how long is my flight license valid?

Once you have acquired your flying license, it is valid. However, regular inspections/check flights are mandatory and must be carried out. Every type rating must be renewed every 12 months in the form of two flight hours and a proficiency check. We provide you with competent support for all check flights and further training and keep you up to date at all times. If you have forgotten your annual check, you can renew your authorization at our flight school. For more detailed information, please contact one of our experienced employees.

Find out more

With which helicopter license am I allowed to transport people?

Passenger transport is permitted with a private pilot's license PPL(H) as well as with a commercial pilot's license CPL(H) and an airline transport pilot's license ATPL(H). However, there are significant differences here. While helicopter pilots with private pilot training can only carry out non-commercial flights (as part of a leisure activity with acquaintances, friends and family), commercial pilots ATPL(H) and CPL(H) are permitted to carry out commercial passenger transportation.

Can I fly in all weather conditions?

In order to be allowed to fly in difficult weather conditions, you need an instrument rating in the ME-IR(H) multi-engine helicopter. This special flight training can be completed at AIR LLOYD and, after passing the test, entitles you to fly helicopters even in poor visibility and critical weather conditions.

Despite special flight training, it is ultimately always the pilot's decision whether the flight can take place or has to be canceled.

Can pilot training be completed alongside a professional activity?

Are you working but would like to obtain a helicopter pilot' s license? At AIR LLOYD, you can perfectly combine your job with flying lessons during your helicopter pilot training. As a flight school, we offer a complete program for the entire theoretical part of your flight training for both professional pilot CPL(H) or ATPL(H) and private pilot PPL(H) training. This allows you to decide individually and flexibly when and where you want to learn for your pilot's license.

What simplifications are there in theory and practice?

For PPL(A) holders with 60 or more flying hours, 6 flying hours are credited towards the 45 flying hours required for the PPL(H). All general subjects are recognized in theory and do not have to be repeated.
In commercial pilot training, there are further exemptions, which are very varied and will be discussed during the interview.

Get in touch with us

Where does helicopter pilot training take place?

Our flight school is located at Bonn-Hangelar airfield and Halle-Oppin airfield. Our trained flight instructors will train you there in close-up instruction. If you are training for the instrument rating in the ME-IR(H) multi-engine helicopter, your simulator training will take place in Trento, Italy.

Can I visit the training location before I start?

Yes, we look forward to your visit and will be happy to show you the training rooms and, of course, the helicopters.

Is there accommodation near the flight school?

Beautiful and affordable accommodation is just a few minutes' walk from our flight school. This ensures that you can fully focus on your helicopter pilot training.

What happens if I have to withdraw from the booked course for personal/health reasons?

There is a withdrawal clause in the contract.

What are the requirements for commercial pilot training?

Health (medical examination class II for the PPL(H) or class I for the CPL(H)).
High school diploma is an advantage but not mandatory,
18 years of age with completion of the practical examination.
The financial security of the training in your individual training phases.

What are the health requirements for a flight?

You will need a medical fitness certificate 1 and 2 for this.

Can I also become a pilot if I have minor health problems? (e.g. wear glasses)

You may wear glasses. However, you must not be colorblind.

We will be happy to answer any individual questions you may have. Get in touch with us.

When can I start my training with you?

At any time, as we offer modular training.

What does AIR LLOYD offer me as a flight school that other providers do not?

AIR LLOYD has been one of the leading helicopter companies in the market for 57 years. With us, you learn from the best - our flight instructors have an average flight time of at least 900 hours per year.

Do you have any questions?
We are also happy to advise you personally

We look forward to being able to help you.

Get in touch with us +49 (0)22 41/23 07-0