High Tide Aviation R44 helicopter in Southport, NC.

Helicopter

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Helicopter Training is available in

  • Southport, NC
Helicopter Training in Southport, NC | High Tide Aviation

What are the Different Levels of Helicopter Training Certificates?

High Tide Aviation in Southport, NC, provides a comprehensive range of helicopter training programs tailored to pilots at every stage of their aviation journey. Whether you're taking your first step with a Private Pilot Certificate or advancing to more specialized certifications, Southport offers the perfect environment to achieve your goals. Training programs include foundational certifications, such as the Private Pilot Certificate, advanced ratings like the Instrument Rating and Commercial Pilot Certificate, and expert-level certifications, including Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument (CFII).

Located in the scenic coastal town of Southport, NC, High Tide Aviation’s helicopter training programs combine expert instruction with real-world flying conditions unique to the North Carolina coastline. With each certification building upon the previous one, pilots gain the skills and confidence needed for personal, business, or professional aviation opportunities in the Southport area and beyond.

Private Pilot Helicopter Certificate: This initial certification allows individuals to fly helicopters for personal use and lays the groundwork for all subsequent aviation training. It requires at least 40 hours of flight time, which includes 30 hours of dual instruction and 10 hours of solo flight. Trainees also undergo ground instruction to cover essential aviation topics such as aerodynamics, navigation, and weather conditions.

Instrument Rating: This rating is crucial for pilots who wish to fly under instrument flight rules (IFR). It enhances a pilot's ability to fly in various weather conditions and is a prerequisite for most professional helicopter flying jobs. The program typically requires 40 hours of dual instruction focused on navigating with flight instruments.

Commercial Pilot Helicopter Certificate: Aimed at those who wish to pursue a career in helicopter flying, this certification requires more advanced training. Pilots learn complex maneuvers and professional conduct to operate helicopters safely and efficiently for commercial purposes. A minimum of 150 hours of flight time is necessary, with specific hours dedicated to pilot-in-command time and cross-country flying.

Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) / Certified Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII): These certifications allow pilots to teach others. The CFI program focuses on developing a pilot’s ability to instruct students in flying helicopters, while the CFII adds the capacity to teach instrument flying. This level of certification is essential for pilots who wish to contribute to aviation education and mentor new pilots entering the field.

Program Prerequisites

Please ensure you meet these before beginning your training:

  • Graduation from Helicopter Ground School: Completion of the helicopter ground school program.

  • FAA Medical Certificate Obtained: Obtaining a medical certificate from the FAA.

  • Prior Certificates/Licenses Complete: Completion of any prior certificates or licenses required.

Enrollment Process

To start your helicopter training at High Tide Aviation, follow these simple steps:

  • Meet the Prerequisites: Ensure you have a current FAA medical certificate and at least a private pilot certificate if enrolling for advanced courses.

  • Consultation: Contact us to discuss your training needs and schedule a visit.

  • Registration: Complete the enrollment process, and you’re ready to begin.

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Cost Estimates

Private Pilot Helicopter Certificate

The foundation of your helicopter flying journey.

Starting at

$30,000

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  • 30 hours of dual instruction in R-44
  • 10 hours solo flight in R-44
  • Optional 40 hours of ground instruction
  • Includes books, FAA written exam, and checkride
  • For Airplane Certificate Holders: $21,762

Helicopter Instrument Rating

Elevate your helicopter piloting skills.

Starting at

$36,000

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  • 40 hours of dual instruction in R-44
  • Optional ground instruction
  • Includes books, FAA written exam, and checkride
  • Subsidized Cost for Airplane Instrument-Rated Pilots: $20,925

Commercial Pilot Helicopter Certificate

Take the next step in your helicopter flying career.

Starting at

$43,000

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  • 60 hours of dual instruction in R-44
  • Optional ground instruction
  • Includes books, FAA written exam, and checkride
  • For Airplane Commercial Pilots Adding Helicopter Rating: $36,050

Helicopter Certified Flight Instructor

Training available for both CFI and CFII.

Starting at

$14,000

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  • 15 hours of dual instruction in R-44
  • Optional 20 hours of ground instruction
  • Includes books, FAA written exams, and checkride

*Please note all prices are approximate and based on FAA minimums*

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