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FAQ'sFrequently Asked Questions
Is helicopter flying safe?Absolutely. The technology involved in the manufacture of helicopters is extremely advanced and there are strict quality controls throughout the process. Most helicopter accidents are caused by either pilot error or neglecting very strict maintenance requirements. Rotorvation Helicopter Services utilizes Heliflite, one of Australia’s largest helicopter sales and servicing companies for all their maintenance requirements. All maintenance is carried out by licensed engineers following the very strict guidelines issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). Our pilots undergo extensive training, both initial and ongoing, to ensure safe flying. All company flight crew undergo regular check and training flights including full emergency procedures and our in-house safety standards exceed the requirements of CASA.
Is it hard to fly a helicopter?It is a challenge to learn to fly a helicopter but, like learning any new skill, it becomes easier with practice and experience. It is more involved than flying an aero plane due to the aerodynamics and control inputs required. However, once the basics are mastered, it is not hard to fly.
Can a helicopter land if the engine stops?Most certainly. Helicopters are designed to “autorotate” meaning the blades will keep turning without engine power allowing the helicopter to be flown to the ground safely. It is highly unlikely that any aircraft engine will just stop without warning. They are extremely reliable and all Rotorvation helicopters are exceptionally well maintained by experienced engineers. Student pilots will be thoroughly trained to handle all emergency situations including practice engine failures that are executed all the way to the ground. All Rotorvation’s flight crew undergo regular checks covering full emergency procedures.
Do I have to have a fixed wing licence before commencing helicopter training?No, although you do receive a reduction in the minimum hours required if you have a fixed wing licence.
At what age can I start training?Training can commence at any age but you cannot obtain a student licence until the age of 16 years. The student licence, with the appropriate medical, will allow you to fly solo which is a required part of the syllabus. You need to be 17 years old to obtain a Private Pilot Licence and 18 to hold a Commercial Licence.
What type of helicopter can I train in?Most students commence their training in the Robinson R22 and this can be used for all the training for either licence. However training can be conducted in any of the helicopters in our fleet. If more than one helicopter type is used during training, then a minimum of 20 hours must be flown in all aircraft. However, training can be conducted in any of the helicopters in our fleet. If more than one helicopter type is used during training, then a minimum of 20 hours must be flown in all aircraft.
Can I use my own helicopter for training?Yes, as long as it has more than one seat, dual controls and it is insured for flight training.
What are the employment prospects like?As with most industries, simply having the necessary qualification does not ensure you a job. Although many jobs in the helicopter industry require experienced pilots, there are operators who employ low time pilots. As all newly qualified pilots have similar hours and experience the ability to get that first job is sometimes a case of attitude, personality and being prepared to go to where the work is. So while initial job opportunities are limited, perseverance pays off.
Can Rotorvation Helicopter Services organize my employment?We will help you as best we can through the various contacts we have in the industry. Our ability to do this will depend on many factors such as your ability as a pilot, your background, your suitability to a particular position as well as the general state of the industry at the time. Where a vacancy exists within our company, we will always employ pilots we have trained ourselves.
Can I hire a helicopter from Rotorvation Helicopter Services?Yes. All licensed pilots can hire Rotorvation’s helicopters subject to certain conditions including the requirement for a current medical certificate. Non-Rotorvation pilots will have to undergo a check flight with a Rotorvation Instructor, be current with local procedures and, where applicable, have the minimum hours required for a particular helicopter type. Former Rotorvation students receive a reduced rate for aircraft hire.
Is the Australian Licence recognised in other countries?Yes. If you are visiting another country temporarily and wish to fly there, your Australian licence will be recognised but you will need to show your licence, medical and conduct a check flight. It’s also a good idea to take your log book with you. You are also able to convert your Australian licence if your visit is more permanent. This is usually a straightforward process, especially for a PPL, but can be more complicated if you wish to work in another country and convert your CPL. You will need to check with the appropriate aviation authority in the country to which you are travelling to in order to confirm the exact requirements. Rotorvation can assist with an overseas conversion.
Can I convert my overseas licence to an Australian licence?Yes. You will have to pass a Flight Rules and Procedures theory exam and a flight test to convert a licence. Most licence converters fly a few hours prior to their flight test to become familiar with the procedures and locality and to ensure that flight standards are at a suitable level for the issue of an Australian licence. You will also require a current Australian medical appropriate to the licence type.
I wish to surprise my partner and fly in to visit friends at their property. How much will this cost?Rotorvation’s staff will be happy to put together a quote for your flight requirements. Based on knowledge and experience from previous sorties we can estimate the flight time and cost associated in completing your trip. Tell us where you would like to go and what you would like to do and we will organize the complete package to your budget.
If you have any questions, please contact us. |
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