If you’re thinking about taking your PPL (H) exam you may be wondering how long it will take and how you can pass it sooner, read on for answers to these questions and more…
What is the EASA PPL(H)?
PPL stands for ‘Private Pilots Licence’, the (H) being Helicopter. The PPL(H) is a licence to fly any helicopter of any size and with any number of passengers. You will have to acquire a type rating for each new model of aircraft that you wish to fly.
What do the EASA PPL(H) exams consist of?
The requirements currently set out for an EASA PPL are very clear. There are 9 multiple choice theory exams you will need to complete to ensure you have the required knowledge encompassing key areas of flying.
The 9 subjects you will sit exams in-house with one of our examiners for your EASA PPL are:
- Air Law
- Human Performance
- Communications
- Operational Procedure
- Meteorology
- Aircraft General Knowledge
- Flight Performance and Planning
- Principles of Flight
- Navigation
You can’t just jump right in and take your theory tests however. Hummingbird and other Approved Training Organisations (ATOs) have a duty to ensure you have completed all the appropriate training in addition to your theoretical knowledge being up to standards.
How long does it take to complete the EASA PPL(H)?
All 9 EASA PPL theory exams must be completed within an 18 month window, counted from the calendar month in which you first attempted on of the 9 exams. You will also need to double up on some exams as you will only have 6 sessions given to you by the EASA in which to pass the 9 exams, meaning you will need to sit more than 1 exam per sitting.
In addition to the theory you will need to learn, practice and perfect 30 flying exercises and accrue a minimum of 45 hours of flight time for the PPL(H) (including 25 hours of dual flight instruction and 10 hours solo with 5 hours cross-country) and complete an oral radio test.
Once a student has demonstrated they are competent in all these areas we issue a recommendation to students ready to take exams which remains valid for 12 months. All students we put forward are thoroughly prepared and we have a 100% pass rate.
Do I need to take a Medical Examination?
You can begin your training straight away, however you must complete a medical examination prior to flying solo. The medical requirement for the PPL(H) is a Class 2 medical which will be issued by an AME (Aviation Medical Examiner). We will put you in touch with an AME.
How long does it take to complete the EASA PPL(H)?
Hummingbird Helicopters has fully qualified examiners and as such all exams can be completed in-house. At the end of your training you will take a skill test with one of our in-house examiners, to demonstrate that you can competently carry out the procedures and manoeuvres that you have been taught, while acting as Pilot in Command (PIC).
From our experience the pilots who are more successful in their training and therefore qualify faster are those that fully commit to the task at hand and utilise all of the resources and expertise of our instructors who are there to help you achieve your dream goal of becoming a qualified helicopter pilot.
What happens when I’ve completed my PPL(H)?
Once you have completed you PPL(h) on the 2 seater R-22, you may wish to upgrade to the larger R-44. This is the 4 seater aircraft, allowing you to take up to 3 passengers.
Want to learn more?
If you would like more information on becoming a pilot, you can request a callback. One of us here at Hummingbird will get back to you straight away.