Learning to operate a turbine helicopter is an essential part of most professional pilots' training. Many pilots pursuing aviation careers--such as in emergency services--must first learn how to fly turbine helicopters by completing a transitioning course.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has no specific requirements for pilots of turbine helicopters. However, pilots should hold at least a private pilot's license (PPL-H) before proceeding to turbine transition training.
Turbine transition training can be accomplished in any turbine-powered helicopter. The Bell Jet Ranger series is very popular.
Most flight academies offer turbine transition training. Training can be conducted as part of the program for a pilot's license, or as an add-on education program. Working pilots can also receive transition training from their employers.
Turbine transition training generally requires at least 10 hours of ground school classes, plus an additional 10 hours of in-flight training. These time frames vary depending on a pilot's aptitude and experience.
Turbine helicopters are more expensive to run than piston-engine aircraft. The majority of the cost of turbine training encompasses the turbine helicopter's rental, which runs approximately $1,000 per hour. The full turbine training program, including ground schools, costs approximately $10,000.
