Helicopter Training

Introductory Flights

Learn to fly a helicopter with us at Arapahoe Flight Club in Colorado Springs!  Do you want to feel what it's like to be behind the controls of a helicopter?  Now you can with our introductory helicopter discovery flight, where you will learn the ins and outs of helicopter operation. 

Whether you're checking out helicopters as a potential hobby or career, or you are looking for an exciting new gift idea, Arapahoe Flight Club has you covered.  We give you the confidence and safety to learn about operating a helicopter in a manageable and straightforward way. 

By tackling a new hobby with our introductory helicopter lessons, we guarantee you won't be disappointed.  As you take to the skies, we'll guide you to fly without fear or hesitation, focusing on making sure each flyer can handle the aircraft effortlessly.

FAQ's

Why are helicopters so expensive?  Helicopters are highly complex machines.  Even a smaller helicopter like those produced by Robinson Helicopters are more complicated to build, maintain, and operate when compared to airplanes of the same size and weight category.  That translates to a higher operating cost per hour, which is why you see an hourly rate that is significantly higher than airplanes.

Why the R44's?  Isn't there a cheaper alternative?  When it comes to helicopter flight training, there are a few models to choose from.  The Schweizer 269 (aka S300C) and Robinson R22 are 2-seat, lightweight helicopters that are common for flight training.  However, these small machines also have small engines that simply do not have the power available to handle the high altitude environment here at the Colorado Springs airport.  The Robinson R44 provides a better performance envelope which translates to safer, more efficient flight training.  Here are the top reasons we like the R44:

• More powerful and capable engine for the altitude and temperatures common in Colorado Springs, providing a safer training environment.
• Training at high altitude has several advantages, including better power management and decision-making skills and the ability to log mountain/high altitude time which is valuable for career track students.
• Allows for fellow students to share in the flight training so more than one person can benefit from the flight.
• If you're on the career track, the R44 is widely used in the training, tour, and utility industries.  Mastering this aircraft early in your training has future benefits.  We can provide you options for gaining experience in the R22 as well. 
• Some people are looking to purchase a helicopter for their personal use, and the Robinson R44 is the most popular choice for private owners.

What are the limitations of our helicopters?  We operate the Robinson R-44 Raven II, which is the most powerful piston helicopter made by Robinson, and the most popular civilian helicopter in the world.  Its fuel injected Lycoming IO-540 engine boasts 245 horsepower, and is rated up to 14,000' density altitude.  The R44 can carry up to 2500lb, however our high altitude often restricts us from operating at max gross weight during the summer months.  It is certified for day and night VFR flight, and is equipped with the appropriate instruments to operate as a trainer for instrument and CFII ratings under simulated instrument conditions (using a view limiting device). 

How do I get a jumpstart on learning before my flight training begins?  What do you recommend for ground training?  When you start flying with us, you'll receive both a ground and flight training syllabus to guide your study, along with thorough lesson plans that include links to videos and articles.  If you enjoy video learning, there are several online subscription resources available, and all have individual certificate/rating courses and career-track bundles. 

Subscription based:

  - King Schools

  - Helicopter Online Ground School (HOGS)

Free YouTube channels:

  - Fixed wing/aviation in general:  Captain Joe, Fly8MA, MzeroA, passfaaexams.com (Gian Luca Noia)

  - Systems:  speedkar99 (car mechanic)

  - Helicopter specific:  Helicopter Lessons in 10 Minutes or Less, Helicopter Online Ground School (they have

     some free content), Helicopter Training Videos, some flight schools put out free content as well such as

     Leading Edge Flight Academy

In addition, you can purchase the books you'll need for home study.  AFC has this package of materials available for purchase, but you can also research and buy your own.  Some books are available as pdf downloads if you prefer digital reading.  When given the option, choose the books that are in color, not black and white. 

What books do I need?  Mandatory Book and Materials List:

• Helicopter Flying Handbook
• Pilots Operating Handbook (POH) for the Robinson R44 Raven II
• Pilots Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
• FAR/AIM (FAA Regulations Manual) - must have a current version for check ride

    Practical Test Standards for your certificate or rating (private, commercial, etc.)

    E6B flight computer, plotter, and sectional chart (you'll need these about halfway through private.  Some        will be available at school for you to borrow.)

    Foreflight subscription (you'll need this about halfway through private or at the latest instrument), iPad,

    Logbook

Optional Book List:

Private Pilot FAA Written Test Prep

Helicopter Maneuvers Manual

Jeppesen Instrument Commercial Manual (mandatory for Commercial Training)

Oral Exam Guide - Helicopters

Robinson R44 Ultimate Pilots Operating Handbook

Foreflight Subscription (optional for private) and iPad

• available as pdf download

How can I keep flying after I receive my private certificate/rating?

If you plan to stop training after your private certificate or add-on rating, your best bet is to purchase a helicopter.  There aren't many rental options out there due to the outrageous insurance and hour requirements.  The other option is to continue flying with an instructor on board, which allows you to carry passengers and still meet the requirements of our insurance (because the instructor is acting as PIC).

Do you have career advancement opportunities?

Arapahoe Flight Club's rotorcraft instructors are well connected in helicopter aviation, and are happy to help you start networking toward your goals - you'll find it's a very small world.  High quality training, a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a solid base of networking are your best friends when it comes to nailing your dream job, and they will carry you further than any job placement program a school can offer.