Q&A for How to Fly a Helicopter

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Question

What are some problems of flying a helicopter?

Droney Delon

Community Answer

The average pilot gets humbled quickly attempting to fly a helicopter the very first time. Control is typically lost within a few seconds. It is a direct outcome of not producing positive dynamic balance. The frequent input of flight control is needed to hold a constant height and position above the surface.

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Question

At what age can I fly a helicopter?

Community Answer

You have to be 16 years old to fly the helicopter solo, 17 to get a Helicopter Private Pilot's Licence (PPL), and 18 to get a Commercial Pilot's Licence (CPL).

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Question

How much does training cost per hour?

Community Answer

Though this can vary greatly in rate depending on area, you can expect to pay around $250/hr for the helicopter, and about $100/hour for the instructor. If you can afford it, some places will offer flat rates and better prices if you buy blocks of training hours.

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Question

How do I start a helicopter?

Community Answer

Turn the key. Check that the engine starter motor switches over your head and turn them on. Then set the throttle and let it power up.

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Question

How do I go forward?

Community Answer

You push the cyclic forward. The cyclic is that joystick-like in front of the pilot.

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Question

How do I read the helicopter's instrument panel?

Community Answer

You will likely need to be trained by a licensed helicopter pilot. Instrument panels on helicopters can be complicated.

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Question

How does a helicopter hover?

Community Answer

A helicopter hovers by making the rotors spin at the same speed as the tail rotor.

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Question

Does the helicopter use an iron or aluminum engine?

Community Answer

A helicopter uses an aluminum engine. The reason for this is because aluminum reflects heat and iron absorbs heat. Helicopters use a significant amount of heat so iron would just burn or melt. Remember heat=energy.

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Question

Are there helicopter simulators for sale?

Galasy4969

Top Answerer

Most major flight simulators include helicopters.

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Question

Is there a set amount of hours involved before getting a solo flight license? How many hours a year once you have a licence do I need to fly to keep my licence valid?

Community Answer

Yes, there is a set amount; you have to have 90 hours of flying for solo flight. And you need to fly 235 hours a year to keep your licence.

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Question

How old do I have to be to fly a helicopter with an instructor?

Community Answer

You have to be at least 16 years old to fly a helicopter and 17 years old to get a license.

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