A Day in the Life of a Helicopter Pilot

Curious about the life of a helicopter pilot? Discover what a pilot’s daily routine looks like, the obstacles pilots face, and the training it takes to learn to navigate these unique aircraft.

Ever wondered what it's really like to be a helicopter pilot? Whether it’s transporting patients for medical treatment, lifting heavy cargo for a construction project, or providing crucial disaster relief, helicopter pilots face exciting challenges that vary from day to day. 

In this article, we'll take you behind the scenes to explore the daily routine of a helicopter pilot, from pre-flight checks to in-flight operations, including the various obstacles pilots might face in the sky. Along the way, we'll dive into the training and skills required to handle this high-flying profession. 

A Helicopter Pilot’s Daily Routine

The daily routine of a helicopter pilot can vary significantly based on the type of work they do and their specific schedule and mission. For example, the work day of an air ambulance helicopter pilot would look very different from the work day of a heavy-lift helicopter pilot assisting in the placement of an HVAC rooftop unit, or a disaster relief helicopter pilot aiding a search and rescue mission after a hurricane.

And whereas an EMS helicopter pilot might work several 12-hour shifts in a row, remaining on call at the hospital where their helicopter is based, an offshore helicopter pilot may take 1-4 flights per day, with flights ranging from 1-2 hours (depending on destination).

However, there are some common tasks and responsibilities that most helicopter pilots will experience during a typical day. Here’s an overview of a day in the life of a helicopter pilot:

Pre-Flight Routine

  • Check Flight Plan and Schedule: Pilots need to review their flight schedules and assignments each day. This includes departure and arrival airports and times, flight paths, and more. They may need to identify alternate airports and landing zones in case of emergency.

  • Perform Pre-Flight Checks: Many helicopter safety checks (aircraft, instrument, control inspections, etc.) will be performed by professional mechanics and inspectors that work as part of the ground crew. However, pilots still need to inspect all visible elements of the aircraft to make sure they are fully functional and in proper working condition. These elements may include fuel gauges, hydraulic systems, lights, fire extinguishers, communication equipment, and more. Helicopter pilots also need to check the helicopter’s logbook to ensure maintenance and flight records are up to date.

  • Receive a Briefing of Flight Conditions: The flight environment can change in an instant, so it’s important for helicopter pilots to be aware of current flight conditions. Pilots will receive a weather forecast and consult with dispatchers to determine potential challenges they may face during flight, such as high winds, low visibility, or fog. This briefing allows them to make necessary preparations or choose to delay or reschedule their flights for the safety of everyone on board.

  • Brief Passengers on Key Safety Information: Depending on the type of flight, helicopter pilots may need to brief passengers on vital safety information, such as the location of emergency exits and equipment.
two male helicopter pilots in a cockpit flying over water

In-Flight Routine

  • Operate the Helicopter: Helicopter pilots will navigate their planned flight path while adhering to airspace regulations.

  • Monitor Aircraft Systems: Pilots must continuously monitor all helicopter systems, including fuel gauges, engine performance, and other components.

  • Manage Passengers and Cargo: Depending on the type of mission, pilots may need to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers or the security of any cargo loads.

  • Communicate with Essential Entities: Helicopter pilots must maintain communication with air traffic control regarding clearance and route changes and speak with ground personnel regarding takeoffs and landings.

Post-Flight Routine

  • Land the Helicopter: Helicopter pilots must check for any obstacles in the aircraft’s landing zone and ensure the area is secure prior to landing the helicopter.

  • Perform a Post-Flight Inspection: Pilots will then assess any issues or damage that may have occurred during the flight.

  • Log Essential Information: It is vital for pilots to complete accurate flight logs in order to comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates for pilots, establish proof of flights in order to maintain their license, and maintain safety standards. Some key details pilots must log include basic flight information (date, departure and arrival airports, aircraft identification, flight time, etc.), pilot experience, flight conditions, and training and endorsements.

  • Debrief with Air and Ground Crew: Once a flight has safely concluded and essential data has been logged, pilots will debrief with their co-pilot, other air crew members, and ground crew regarding any issues they experienced during the flight.

  • Report Any Maintenance Issues: If the air team experienced any technical issues during the flight or noticed any aircraft damage, they must report this to the maintenance crew. This allows for proper repairs to take place to ensure the safety of the next pilot, passengers, and crew members.

  • Secure the Aircraft: Many helicopter pilots take several flights in a day. At the end of the day, the pilot will ensure the helicopter is properly shut down, locked, and secured in the designated area like a dedicated hangar space.

Ongoing Skill Maintenance and Knowledge Transfer

  • Participate in Recurrent Training: Helicopter pilots undergo frequent training to sharpen their skills and ensure they stay current with best practices. Training may include simulator sessions, flight drills, medical recertification, and more.

  • Undergo Regular Briefings: Pilots may be required to attend frequent meetings to discuss operational safety, updates to company policies, sustainability initiatives, and amendments to aviation regulations. 

Challenges Helicopter Pilots Face

Helicopter pilots face a unique set of challenges that require a high level of skill, focus, and adaptability. From navigating unpredictable weather conditions and challenging terrain to managing the limitations of their aircraft while maintaining mental clarity, these obstacles demand constant vigilance and precision.

white and yellow firefighting helicopter flying in thick smoke over a wildfire
  • Inclement Weather: Pilots must constantly be aware of changing weather conditions and their impact on the aircraft, as helicopters can be affected by gusty winds, cold weather, and unexpected turbulence.

  • Navigational Challenges: Helicopter pilots often fly in areas with treacherous terrain, such as mountainous regions and densely forested areas that present potential complications. Because helicopters are capable of flying at lower altitudes and slower speeds than airplanes, pilots must be more precise and pay special attention to power lines, buildings, and other obstacles.

  • Aircraft Limitations: Helicopters typically have a shorter fuel range than airplanes, meaning pilots must plan fuel stops more carefully–especially for long-distance missions and operations in remote areas. Choppers may also be impacted by high-altitude environments with high temperatures or icy conditions that can reduce engine and rotor performance. Furthermore, pilots must consistently manage the aircraft’s weight limits when performing heavy-lift services like construction support.

  • Psychological State: Helicopter pilots are only human, which means they can be affected by factors such as fatigue, stress, side effects of medication, alcohol or drug use, and overconfidence, among others. These variables can impact a pilot’s decision-making skills and overall performance, leading to pilot error and the potential for crashes.

  • Spatial Disorientation: Reduced visibility due to darkness and fog, malfunctioning equipment, unfamiliar flight environments, and chronic stress can all contribute to spatial disorientation. This is a phenomenon in which the unique, three-dimensional environment of flight creates sensory conflicts within the body, resulting in helicopter pilots being unable to accurately determine the altitude of their aircraft relative to the ground. This may cause them to turn, lift, or descend unintentionally. Unfortunately, this disorientation contributes to 5-10% of general aviation accidents, with 90% of these accidents resulting in death, shares the Federal Aviation Administration.

  • High Cost of Expenses: Helicopters are expensive to purchase and operate. They require constant maintenance to ensure the safety of their operators, passengers, and cargo. Issues like rotor blade damage, engine malfunctions, and hydraulic system failures are more common than with fixed-wing aircraft.

  • Regulations: Helicopter pilots are required to maintain up-to-date certifications and insurance as well as meet medical standards–all of which require ongoing training, flight hours, and medical exams. They must also understand and follow varying regulations depending on the type of operation and the airspace in which they’re flying.

  • Public Perception of Risk: Many passengers are under the impression that helicopter flight is more dangerous than airplane flight, despite the fact that the fatal accident rate for all helicopters in the United States from 2019-2023 was lower than the fatal accident rate for small, private airplanes. As a result, helicopter pilots are relied upon to manage public perception and ensure passenger comfort during commercial, tourist, and medical operations. (Learn more about common helicopter myths and their realities here.)

The challenges helicopter pilots face are diverse, requiring a balance of technical skill, mental resilience, and strategic planning. Despite these obstacles, pilots are trained to handle these risks effectively, ensuring the safety of their passengers, crew, and aircraft while maintaining a high standard of operational excellence.

Training to Become a Helicopter Pilot

Training to become a helicopter pilot demands serious commitment, practice, and focus, but aspiring pilots typically find the process rewarding and enjoyable.

How Long It Takes to Get Certified

Many students are able to successfully navigate the skies with a private pilot license after 6-8 months of part-time classes, flight time instruction, written exams, and flight exams. According to the national average, most students qualify for their license after 60-80 hours of flight time.

Eligibility Requirements

Helicopter pilots needs to meet certain eligibility qualifications, including:

  • Being at least 17 years old to obtain a helicopter license at the private pilot level, or at least 18 years old to obtain a helicopter certificate at the commercial pilot level
  • Being able to speak, read, and write in English
  • Being able to provide proof of identity
  • Not having any medical conditions that would prevent them from obtaining an FAA medical certificate (3rd class to earn a private helicopter license or 2nd class to earn a commercial helicopter license)

The Certification Process

Aspiring helicopter pilots who meet the criteria for acceptance will be able to submit a student pilot application. As part of this application process, they must verify their identity with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and undergo a physical examination with an FAA-approved medical examiner to receive a medical certificate. 

Prospective pilots must then complete ground school at an FAA-certified flight training location, log the minimum required flight time (40 hours for a private pilot certificate or 150 hours for a commercial pilot certificate), and pass the written exam. Finally, trainees must pass the check ride, which consists of an oral and practical exam.

The Overall Cost

So, how much does this all cost? According to Pilot Mall, helicopter enthusiasts can expect to spend $12,000 to $20,000 to obtain a private helicopter license, while commercial licenses run an additional $18,000 to $40,000. If you’re interested in obtaining your license, here are 10 ways to pay for your helicopter flight training.

Our Pilots Are Trained to Handle It All with Precision

Being a helicopter pilot is an exciting, high-stakes job that requires technical skill and adaptability. From pre-flight inspections to managing challenging conditions in the air, no two days are ever the same. 

While the job comes with its share of challenges—whether it's navigating tricky terrain, dealing with inclement weather, or balancing safety with efficiency—helicopter pilots are trained to handle it all with precision. 

If you’re looking to hire the best team and fleet in the business, look no further than Helicopter Express. Our Atlanta helicopter service experts have provided the highest standards of safety, reliability, and precision in the industry for almost 30 years. We offer a variety of services, including heavy lifting, utility construction, firefighting, disaster relief, aerial cinematography, and charter trips. Contact us today to learn more!

A Day in the Life of a Helicopter Pilot

Ever wondered what it's really like to be a helicopter pilot? Whether it’s transporting patients for medical treatment, lifting heavy cargo for a construction project, or providing crucial disaster relief, helicopter pilots face exciting challenges that vary from day to day. 

In this article, we'll take you behind the scenes to explore the daily routine of a helicopter pilot, from pre-flight checks to in-flight operations, including the various obstacles pilots might face in the sky. Along the way, we'll dive into the training and skills required to handle this high-flying profession. 

A Helicopter Pilot’s Daily Routine

The daily routine of a helicopter pilot can vary significantly based on the type of work they do and their specific schedule and mission. For example, the work day of an air ambulance helicopter pilot would look very different from the work day of a heavy-lift helicopter pilot assisting in the placement of an HVAC rooftop unit, or a disaster relief helicopter pilot aiding a search and rescue mission after a hurricane.

And whereas an EMS helicopter pilot might work several 12-hour shifts in a row, remaining on call at the hospital where their helicopter is based, an offshore helicopter pilot may take 1-4 flights per day, with flights ranging from 1-2 hours (depending on destination).

However, there are some common tasks and responsibilities that most helicopter pilots will experience during a typical day. Here’s an overview of a day in the life of a helicopter pilot:

Pre-Flight Routine

  • Check Flight Plan and Schedule: Pilots need to review their flight schedules and assignments each day. This includes departure and arrival airports and times, flight paths, and more. They may need to identify alternate airports and landing zones in case of emergency.

  • Perform Pre-Flight Checks: Many helicopter safety checks (aircraft, instrument, control inspections, etc.) will be performed by professional mechanics and inspectors that work as part of the ground crew. However, pilots still need to inspect all visible elements of the aircraft to make sure they are fully functional and in proper working condition. These elements may include fuel gauges, hydraulic systems, lights, fire extinguishers, communication equipment, and more. Helicopter pilots also need to check the helicopter’s logbook to ensure maintenance and flight records are up to date.

  • Receive a Briefing of Flight Conditions: The flight environment can change in an instant, so it’s important for helicopter pilots to be aware of current flight conditions. Pilots will receive a weather forecast and consult with dispatchers to determine potential challenges they may face during flight, such as high winds, low visibility, or fog. This briefing allows them to make necessary preparations or choose to delay or reschedule their flights for the safety of everyone on board.

  • Brief Passengers on Key Safety Information: Depending on the type of flight, helicopter pilots may need to brief passengers on vital safety information, such as the location of emergency exits and equipment.
two male helicopter pilots in a cockpit flying over water

In-Flight Routine

  • Operate the Helicopter: Helicopter pilots will navigate their planned flight path while adhering to airspace regulations.

  • Monitor Aircraft Systems: Pilots must continuously monitor all helicopter systems, including fuel gauges, engine performance, and other components.

  • Manage Passengers and Cargo: Depending on the type of mission, pilots may need to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers or the security of any cargo loads.

  • Communicate with Essential Entities: Helicopter pilots must maintain communication with air traffic control regarding clearance and route changes and speak with ground personnel regarding takeoffs and landings.

Post-Flight Routine

  • Land the Helicopter: Helicopter pilots must check for any obstacles in the aircraft’s landing zone and ensure the area is secure prior to landing the helicopter.

  • Perform a Post-Flight Inspection: Pilots will then assess any issues or damage that may have occurred during the flight.

  • Log Essential Information: It is vital for pilots to complete accurate flight logs in order to comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates for pilots, establish proof of flights in order to maintain their license, and maintain safety standards. Some key details pilots must log include basic flight information (date, departure and arrival airports, aircraft identification, flight time, etc.), pilot experience, flight conditions, and training and endorsements.

  • Debrief with Air and Ground Crew: Once a flight has safely concluded and essential data has been logged, pilots will debrief with their co-pilot, other air crew members, and ground crew regarding any issues they experienced during the flight.

  • Report Any Maintenance Issues: If the air team experienced any technical issues during the flight or noticed any aircraft damage, they must report this to the maintenance crew. This allows for proper repairs to take place to ensure the safety of the next pilot, passengers, and crew members.

  • Secure the Aircraft: Many helicopter pilots take several flights in a day. At the end of the day, the pilot will ensure the helicopter is properly shut down, locked, and secured in the designated area like a dedicated hangar space.

Ongoing Skill Maintenance and Knowledge Transfer

  • Participate in Recurrent Training: Helicopter pilots undergo frequent training to sharpen their skills and ensure they stay current with best practices. Training may include simulator sessions, flight drills, medical recertification, and more.

  • Undergo Regular Briefings: Pilots may be required to attend frequent meetings to discuss operational safety, updates to company policies, sustainability initiatives, and amendments to aviation regulations. 

Challenges Helicopter Pilots Face

Helicopter pilots face a unique set of challenges that require a high level of skill, focus, and adaptability. From navigating unpredictable weather conditions and challenging terrain to managing the limitations of their aircraft while maintaining mental clarity, these obstacles demand constant vigilance and precision.

white and yellow firefighting helicopter flying in thick smoke over a wildfire
  • Inclement Weather: Pilots must constantly be aware of changing weather conditions and their impact on the aircraft, as helicopters can be affected by gusty winds, cold weather, and unexpected turbulence.

  • Navigational Challenges: Helicopter pilots often fly in areas with treacherous terrain, such as mountainous regions and densely forested areas that present potential complications. Because helicopters are capable of flying at lower altitudes and slower speeds than airplanes, pilots must be more precise and pay special attention to power lines, buildings, and other obstacles.

  • Aircraft Limitations: Helicopters typically have a shorter fuel range than airplanes, meaning pilots must plan fuel stops more carefully–especially for long-distance missions and operations in remote areas. Choppers may also be impacted by high-altitude environments with high temperatures or icy conditions that can reduce engine and rotor performance. Furthermore, pilots must consistently manage the aircraft’s weight limits when performing heavy-lift services like construction support.

  • Psychological State: Helicopter pilots are only human, which means they can be affected by factors such as fatigue, stress, side effects of medication, alcohol or drug use, and overconfidence, among others. These variables can impact a pilot’s decision-making skills and overall performance, leading to pilot error and the potential for crashes.

  • Spatial Disorientation: Reduced visibility due to darkness and fog, malfunctioning equipment, unfamiliar flight environments, and chronic stress can all contribute to spatial disorientation. This is a phenomenon in which the unique, three-dimensional environment of flight creates sensory conflicts within the body, resulting in helicopter pilots being unable to accurately determine the altitude of their aircraft relative to the ground. This may cause them to turn, lift, or descend unintentionally. Unfortunately, this disorientation contributes to 5-10% of general aviation accidents, with 90% of these accidents resulting in death, shares the Federal Aviation Administration.

  • High Cost of Expenses: Helicopters are expensive to purchase and operate. They require constant maintenance to ensure the safety of their operators, passengers, and cargo. Issues like rotor blade damage, engine malfunctions, and hydraulic system failures are more common than with fixed-wing aircraft.

  • Regulations: Helicopter pilots are required to maintain up-to-date certifications and insurance as well as meet medical standards–all of which require ongoing training, flight hours, and medical exams. They must also understand and follow varying regulations depending on the type of operation and the airspace in which they’re flying.

  • Public Perception of Risk: Many passengers are under the impression that helicopter flight is more dangerous than airplane flight, despite the fact that the fatal accident rate for all helicopters in the United States from 2019-2023 was lower than the fatal accident rate for small, private airplanes. As a result, helicopter pilots are relied upon to manage public perception and ensure passenger comfort during commercial, tourist, and medical operations. (Learn more about common helicopter myths and their realities here.)

The challenges helicopter pilots face are diverse, requiring a balance of technical skill, mental resilience, and strategic planning. Despite these obstacles, pilots are trained to handle these risks effectively, ensuring the safety of their passengers, crew, and aircraft while maintaining a high standard of operational excellence.

Training to Become a Helicopter Pilot

Training to become a helicopter pilot demands serious commitment, practice, and focus, but aspiring pilots typically find the process rewarding and enjoyable.

How Long It Takes to Get Certified

Many students are able to successfully navigate the skies with a private pilot license after 6-8 months of part-time classes, flight time instruction, written exams, and flight exams. According to the national average, most students qualify for their license after 60-80 hours of flight time.

Eligibility Requirements

Helicopter pilots needs to meet certain eligibility qualifications, including:

  • Being at least 17 years old to obtain a helicopter license at the private pilot level, or at least 18 years old to obtain a helicopter certificate at the commercial pilot level
  • Being able to speak, read, and write in English
  • Being able to provide proof of identity
  • Not having any medical conditions that would prevent them from obtaining an FAA medical certificate (3rd class to earn a private helicopter license or 2nd class to earn a commercial helicopter license)

The Certification Process

Aspiring helicopter pilots who meet the criteria for acceptance will be able to submit a student pilot application. As part of this application process, they must verify their identity with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and undergo a physical examination with an FAA-approved medical examiner to receive a medical certificate. 

Prospective pilots must then complete ground school at an FAA-certified flight training location, log the minimum required flight time (40 hours for a private pilot certificate or 150 hours for a commercial pilot certificate), and pass the written exam. Finally, trainees must pass the check ride, which consists of an oral and practical exam.

The Overall Cost

So, how much does this all cost? According to Pilot Mall, helicopter enthusiasts can expect to spend $12,000 to $20,000 to obtain a private helicopter license, while commercial licenses run an additional $18,000 to $40,000. If you’re interested in obtaining your license, here are 10 ways to pay for your helicopter flight training.

Our Pilots Are Trained to Handle It All with Precision

Being a helicopter pilot is an exciting, high-stakes job that requires technical skill and adaptability. From pre-flight inspections to managing challenging conditions in the air, no two days are ever the same. 

While the job comes with its share of challenges—whether it's navigating tricky terrain, dealing with inclement weather, or balancing safety with efficiency—helicopter pilots are trained to handle it all with precision. 

If you’re looking to hire the best team and fleet in the business, look no further than Helicopter Express. Our Atlanta helicopter service experts have provided the highest standards of safety, reliability, and precision in the industry for almost 30 years. We offer a variety of services, including heavy lifting, utility construction, firefighting, disaster relief, aerial cinematography, and charter trips. Contact us today to learn more!

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