Is it better to learn how to fly an airplane before learning how to fly a helicoptor?

Answer 1

They are different, but a portion of the time you log in planes will apply to your requirements for helicopters. 1 hour of plane training is about $90, and one hour of chopper training is about $250. So, if you ultimately want both ratings, having the plane training will save you some money on your chopper training.

Answer 2

Alright..
Yes, generally speaking it is. Dispite the difference between the two there are some commonalities.
Navigation is navigation. Airmanship is airmanship. Learning to operate in three dimensions is the same.
In an earlier question I talked about the differences between helos and airplanes so i won't reiterate it here, but suffice to say..yes , helos are more difficult to master.
If you are considering a helicopter license than yes, you can save a significant amount of money by doing a fixed wing license first.
I would assume that you interersted in a commercial helicopter license? (not much point to a private one unless you have heaps of $$$ and a your own helicopter ...in which case...i don't think that savings will matter too much)
The best path and the least cost is to complete a Private Pilot - Fixed Wing (appx 65-100/hr) then complete your commercial rating on a Helicopter such as an R-22 or Schwietzer 300 ( appx 225-300/hr)

Hope this helps
Helipilot212 - 6000+hrs / ATPL helicopter and Fixed Wing

Answer 3

I learned to fly an airplane and was told that the two experiences were different. I was also told by a Vietnam veteran, who had flown a helicopter in Nam, helicopters are easier to fly and the controls were less complicated. Knowing to fly both was always a dream of mine. Good luck!

Answer 4

I don't think so. I had my fixed wing rating before I had my helicopter rating. So in one sense I was already familiar with aerodynamics, regulations, weather, etc.

But then I went into the Army to fly helicopters. Primary flight training was about like getting your private pilot license...ground school and about 40 hours of flight training.

Most of the other guys in my class had never piloted anything before but they were up and about and soloing in about the same time as me.

Of course most of the ground school was a repeat of what I already "knew."

Answer 5

It doesnt matter they are two comepletely different piloting concepts. I have both licences, and a plane is easier to learn. But if you want a challenge learn to fly a chopper.

Answer 6

Its cheaper, it makes the related stuff easier (airspace, communications, traffic familiarity, etc), but I don't know if its 'better'.

I've heard some helicopter instructors say that they need to spend time with fixed-wing pilots to 'unlearn' some reflexes that cause poor collective control.

Answer 7

if ur talking r/c the helicopter is easier to learn.