Looking to become commercial helicopter pilot....?

Question

After receiving a commercial license would I be limited to the kind of helicopters I could fly for employment if I only trained with an R 22 or R 44? Or would I be qualified to fly other kinds of helicopters?

Answer 1

As a low-time new entry pilot in the industry you will be limited in your opportunities, mostly because of your limited flight experience and yes, secondly by the specific type you have flown. Your pilot certificate will not specify which aircraft you have flown or are proficient in, and as far as the FAA is concerned, you are legal to fly anything under 12,500 lbs. In actuality, though, your first job will probably be flying the same model helicopter that your training was accomplished in.

The majority of flight schools utilize the Robinson R-22 and it is probably the most economical for training. Also, SFAR 73 states that to flight instruct in the Robinson, you need 200 hours of total helicopter experience, at least 50 in the Robinson.

http://www.airweb.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgFAR.nsf/0/729912FA73CA1F8486256C710073F474?OpenDocument&Highlight=helicopter

That pretty much means that if you want to instruct in the Robinson, you need to have done your training in it, because you don't want to spring for the 50 hours later on.

There is no such requirement for other makes and models such as the Schweizer or Enstrom. If you trained in the Robinson and there happens to be a school flying Schweizers and they need instructors badly enough, they can give you the 5 hours and let you loose. Vice Versa isn't true.

So, to answer your question: No, you would not be qualified to step right into a job flying a different type of helicopter, but flying the Robinson would certainly increase your chances.

Answer 2

Most likely, you are limited to what you trained on and for. Many companies will still hire you even if they fly other choppers, but train you on them first. Training can take up to three weeks. There is high demand for helicopter pilots.

Answer 3

I think this video will help you out.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wg1lEz0p4DM&app=desktop