Dear Kind Reader, if you’re interested in pursuing a career in aviation, especially as a helicopter pilot, Arizona might be the perfect place for your training. With its clear, sunny skies and diverse terrain ranging from mountains to deserts, this state offers a unique opportunity to practice your flying skills and gain valuable experience. Helicopter training Arizona is a popular choice among aspiring pilots due to the abundance of flight schools and well-equipped facilities. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced pilot, there’s a program suitable for your needs.
Helicopter Flight Schools in Arizona
Arizona is a popular destination for helicopter pilots to receive their training because of its diverse terrain, favorable weather, and abundance of schools offering a wide range of training programs. Here are some of the best helicopter flight schools in Arizona and the courses they offer.
Heli-Team
Heli-Team is a helicopter flight school located in Phoenix, Arizona. The flight school offers a wide range of training programs including private pilot, commercial pilot, instrument rating, flight instructor, and ATP. Training courses are individually tailored to the student’s needs and experience level. Heli-Team’s facilities include a flight simulator, classrooms, and an aircraft maintenance center.
Quantum Helicopters
Quantum Helicopters is a helicopter flight school with two locations in Arizona. The school offers training courses for private pilot, commercial pilot, and flight instructor certificates, as well as instrument rating, turbine transition, and external load training. Quantum Helicopters also offers veterans benefits assistance to qualified individuals.
Guidance Aviation
Guidance Aviation is a helicopter and unmanned aircraft systems flight school located in Prescott, Arizona. The school offers a Bachelor of Science in Professional Helicopter Pilot Program, which includes an associate degree, flight training, and ground school. Guidance Aviation also offers commercial pilot, instrument rating, certified flight instructor, and add-on ratings courses.
Universal Helicopters
Universal Helicopters is another helicopter flight school located in Arizona with locations in Prescott, Scottsdale, and Tucson. The school offers private pilot, commercial pilot, instrument rating, flight instructor, and add-on rating courses. Universal Helicopters also offers a professional pilot program for veterans and a degree program in aviation management with Utah Valley University.
Silverhawk Aviation Academy
Silverhawk Aviation Academy is a helicopter and fixed-wing flight school located in Caldwell, Idaho with a satellite campus in Mesa, Arizona. The school offers private pilot, commercial pilot, instrument rating, and flight instructor courses for helicopters. In addition, Silverhawk Aviation Academy offers a helicopter and airplane maintenance program with degree options.
Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters
Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters is a helicopter tour company that also offers training courses. The company offers private pilot, commercial pilot, and tour pilot courses, as well as a mountain flying course. Training is conducted on a fleet of Robinson helicopters with a variety of schedules available.
Robinson Helicopter Factory School
The Robinson Helicopter Factory School is located in Torrance, California, but it is worth mentioning because of its close proximity to Arizona and the popularity of Robinson helicopters among Arizona flight schools. The Robinson Helicopter Factory School offers courses for maintenance technicians, flight instructors, and factory training programs for the R22, R44, and R66 helicopters.
Helicopter Training Schools in Arizona
Arizona is home to several prestigious helicopter training schools that offer top-notch training and instruction to students aspiring to become professional pilots. These schools have state-of-the-art facilities and experienced instructors who are committed to providing students with the best possible training. Some of the most popular helicopter training schools in Arizona include:
Universal Helicopter
Universal Helicopters is one of the premier helicopter training schools in Arizona. The school has been in operation for over 50 years and has trained thousands of pilots during that time. Universal Helicopters offers a variety of training programs, including private pilot, commercial pilot, and flight instructor training.
Arizona Heli-Flight
Arizona Heli-Flight is another top helicopter training school in Arizona. The school is located in Prescott and offers both private and commercial pilot training programs. Arizona Heli-Flight has a fleet of top-of-the-line helicopters and experienced instructors who are dedicated to helping students achieve their career goals.
Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters
If you’re looking for a unique helicopter training experience, Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters is the school for you. The school offers helicopter tours and flight training programs in and around the Grand Canyon. Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters has experienced instructors and state-of-the-art helicopter equipment, making it one of the best schools in Arizona for training student pilots.
Robinson R22 Helicopter Training
Robinson R22 Helicopter Training is a specialty helicopter training school that focuses on training pilots to fly the Robinson R22 helicopter. The school is located at Deer Valley Airport in Phoenix and offers private pilot, commercial pilot, and flight instructor training programs.
Cutter Aviation
Cutter Aviation is an all-encompassing aviation company that offers a variety of services, including helicopter pilot training. The school has been in operation for over 90 years and has trained thousands of pilots during that time. Cutter Aviation offers private pilot, commercial pilot, and flight instructor training programs.
Pinnacle Aviation Academy
Pinnacle Aviation Academy is a helicopter and airplane training school located in Scottsdale, AZ. The school offers a variety of helicopter training programs, including private pilot, commercial pilot, and flight instructor training. Pinnacle Aviation Academy has experienced instructors and state-of-the-art helicopter equipment, making it one of the best schools in Arizona for training student pilots.
Guidance Aviation
Guidance Aviation is a helicopter flight school with locations in Prescott and Baton Rouge. The school offers a variety of helicopter training programs, including private pilot, commercial pilot, and flight instructor training. Guidance Aviation has experienced instructors and state-of-the-art helicopter equipment, making it one of the best schools in Arizona for training student pilots.
| No | Key Information |
|---|---|
| 1 | Location |
| 2 | Types of helicopter training offered |
| 3 | Duration of training programs |
| 4 | Costs of training |
| 5 | Certifications offered upon completion of program |
| 6 | Minimum age/education requirements |
| 7 | Requirements for physical fitness |
| 8 | Arrangements for accommodations during training |
Helicopter Flight Schools in Arizona
Arizona has undoubtedly become a well-known destination for aviation training, with its excellent weather, clear skies, diverse terrain, vast airspace, and world-class aviation facilities. Helicopter flight schools in Arizona offer a wide range of training programs, including private and commercial pilot training, instrument rating, flight instructor training, and helicopter scenic tours. Here are some of the leading helicopter flight schools in Arizona:
1. Guidance Aviation
Guidance Aviation in Prescott, Arizona, is a top-rated helicopter flight school that offers top-notch flight training, degree programs, and excellent job opportunities to graduates. Their program is designed to provide the fundamental skills and confidence necessary for a successful career in the aviation industry. Guidance Aviation also offers a Military to Flight Deck program for military veterans.
2. Quantum Helicopters
Quantum Helicopters in Chandler, Arizona, is an FAA-certified helicopter flight school that has been providing exceptional flight training to students for more than 20 years. They offer programs for private and commercial pilot certification, as well as for becoming a certified flight instructor. Quantum Helicopters also provides job placement assistance for their graduates.
3. Universal Helicopters
Universal Helicopters in Prescott, Arizona, is a well-respected helicopter flight school that has been training students for over 50 years. They offer top-notch professional pilot programs, including private, commercial, and CFI ratings. Universal Helicopters also offers a unique program for becoming a certified tour pilot for candidates who meet specific requirements.
4. Airwest Helicopters
Airwest Helicopters in Glendale, Arizona, is an FAA-certified helicopter flight school that offers professional flight training for private, commercial, and helicopter instrument ratings. Their curriculum is designed to provide students with the highest level of training and defensive flying techniques. Airwest Helicopters boasts a high success rate on FAA practical exams.
5. Arizona Helicopters
Arizona Helicopters in Mesa, Arizona, is a helicopter flight school that offers a personalized approach to flight training. They offer private pilot and commercial pilot programs, as well as instruction for the certified flight instructor rating. Their flight training program is custom-tailored to meet the individual needs of their students.
Helicopter Flight Schools in Arizona
The state of Arizona is home to several helicopter flight schools that offer a range of training programs for aspiring pilots. These schools provide students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to operate a helicopter in different weather conditions, terrain, and altitudes.
Robinson Helicopter Company Flight School
The Robinson Helicopter Company Flight School is located in Torrance, California, and offers training programs for pilots of all levels, including those seeking to earn a private, commercial, or flight instructor certificate. The school has an FAA-approved facility in Arizona, where students can complete their training on Robinson helicopters in the high-altitude environment of Sedona, one of the most picturesque locations in Arizona.
Sunstate Aviation
Sunstate Aviation has partnered with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Prescott campus, making it one of the most reputable and highly regarded aviation training schools in the country. The aviation school, located in Chandler, Arizona, offers a vast array of helicopter training programs to students who wish to become commercial pilots.
Other helicopter flight schools in Arizona:
| No | Flight School | Location | Training Programs Offered |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arizona Helicopters | Scottsdale, AZ | Commercial Pilot, Certified Flight Instructor Rating, Tours and Charters |
| 2 | Guidance Aviation | Prescott, AZ | Professional Pilot Program, Instrument Rating Program, Veterans Affairs Program |
| 3 | Westwind Aviation | Phoenix, AZ | Commercial Pilot, Private Pilot, Aerial patrols, Photography and survey, Tours |
Choosing the right helicopter flight school is an important decision that will set the foundation for your flying career. It is essential to research the schools in your area, read reviews, and reach out to the alumni or current students to get a full picture of the training and the school’s culture before committing.
The Best Helicopter Training Schools in Arizona
Arizona has some of the most reputable helicopter training schools in the country. These schools offer diverse training programs, depending on the level of experience and skill of the trainee. In Arizona, you can choose to either pursue private, commercial, or instrument helicopter pilot courses. Below are some of the best helicopter training schools in Arizona:
1. Guidance Aviation
Guidance Aviation offers comprehensive helicopter flight training that adheres to FAA guidelines. They provide training for all levels of helicopter pilots, including Instrument Rating, Flight Instructor, External Load and long-line, and more. The courses focus on safety, professionalism, and precision flying.
2. Universal Helicopters
Universal Helicopters is dedicated to providing students with exceptional helicopter pilot training with a range of certificate programs that cater to each individual’s unique needs. The school offers a variety of programs, including Private Pilot, Commercial Pilot, Instrument Rating, CFII, ATP, and CFI training.
3. Quantum Helicopters
Quantum Helicopters offers various training programs, including Private Pilot, Commercial Pilot, Instrument Rating, CFI, and additional endorsements and specialized flight instruction courses. Each training program focuses on professionalism, expertise, and safety so that each student can become a proficient and skilled helicopter pilot.
4. Chandler Air Service
Chandler Air Service is an FAA-approved helicopter pilot training school and offers programs for both aspiring pilots and those who are already certified. Some of the courses offered include Private Pilot, Commercial Pilot, and Certified Flight Instructor. They have experienced flight instructors with a passion for teaching and a deep commitment to safety.
5. Arizona State University
The Arizona State University offers a world-class rotor-wing program through the Polytechnic School in the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering. They offer a range of degree programs from a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Management to Master of Science in Unmanned and Autonomous Systems Engineering.
6. Westwind School of Aeronautics
Westwind School of Aeronautics is a helicopter pilot training school that provides a range of programs to aspiring pilots. The school offers personalized mentorship, experienced and professional instructors, and a rigorous training approach that allows students to gain practical flying skills and industry insights.
7. Glendale Community College
Glendale Community College offers an associate degree in Applied Science in Aviation, Helicopter Pilot Emphasis. This program starts with a private pilot training course that focuses on basic helicopter flight skills and proficiencies. The program includes Commercial Pilot, Instrument Rating, and Certified Flight Instructor training to prepare students for a career as a professional helicopter pilot.
Helicopter Training Schools in Arizona
Arizona is undoubtedly one of the top destinations for helicopter pilot training in the US. With its sunny weather and diverse geography that includes mountains, deserts, and canyons, aspiring pilots have a great opportunity to experience various flight conditions and terrains. Here are some of the top helicopter training schools in Arizona:
1. Guidance Aviation
Guidance Aviation is a Part 141 flight school that provides helicopter pilot training to students aiming to pursue careers in industries such as EMS, firefighting, tours and charters, and utility operations. The school has three campuses in Prescott, Arizona; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and Terrell, Texas.
2. Arizona Helicopters
Arizona Helicopters is located in Mesa, Arizona, and offers a variety of training programs ranging from private pilot certification to advanced flight training. The school’s fleet of modern helicopters includes Robinson R-22, R-44, and Bell 206 helicopters, giving students the opportunity to train in different types of aircraft.
3. Quantum Helicopters
Quantum Helicopters is based in Chandler, Arizona, and provides helicopter pilot training for students seeking their private or commercial licenses. The school has been in operation for over 25 years and has a fleet of Robinson R-22 and R-44 helicopters, as well as a simulator for instrument training.
| No | Training Schools | Location | Programs Offered | Fleet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Guidance Aviation | Prescott, AZ Baton Rouge, LA Terrell, TX |
Private Pilot Commercial Pilot Flight Instructor Turbine Transition Night Vision Goggle |
Robinson R-44 Bell 206 EC-130 |
| 2 | Arizona Helicopters | Mesa, AZ | Private Pilot Commercial Pilot Instrument Rating Certified Flight Instructor Certified Flight Instructor Instrument External Load Moutain Flying |
Robinson R-22 Robinson R-44 Bell 206 |
| 3 | Quantum Helicopters | Chandler, AZ | Private Pilot Commercial Pilot CFI Instrument Rating Mountain Flying Night Flying |
Robinson R-22 Robinson R-44 |
Flight Schools Offering Helicopter Training in Arizona
Arizona is home to many flight schools that offer helicopter training. Here are some of the top schools:
1. Guidance Aviation
Guidance Aviation is a helicopter flight training school that offers training for private pilot, commercial pilot, and certified flight instructor. The school has campuses in Prescott and Mesa, Arizona. Their fleet of helicopters includes Robinson R22, R44, and Bell 206 models. The cost of training varies depending on the course and license type, but the approximate cost for private pilot license is around $25,000.
2. AeroGuard Flight Training Center
AeroGuard Flight Training Center has a campus at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport and offers helicopter training for private pilot, commercial pilot, and certified flight instructor. Their fleet consists of Robinson R22 and R44 helicopters. The approximate cost for private pilot license is around $25,000.
3. Universal Helicopters
Universal Helicopters has a campus in Prescott, Arizona and offers helicopter flight training for private pilot, commercial pilot, and certified flight instructor. Their fleet includes Robinson R22, R44, and Bell 206 helicopters. The approximate cost for private pilot license is around $20,000.
| No | Flight School | Location | Helicopters Offered | Approx. Cost of Private Pilot License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Guidance Aviation | Prescott and Mesa, Arizona | Robinson R22, R44, Bell 206 | $25,000 |
| 2 | AeroGuard Flight Training Center | Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport | Robinson R22, R44 | $25,000 |
| 3 | Universal Helicopters | Prescott, Arizona | Robinson R22, R44, Bell 206 | $20,000 |
Helicopter Training Arizona FAQ
1. What kind of helicopter training do you offer?
We offer a variety of helicopter training programs, including private pilot, commercial pilot, and flight instructor training.
2. What are the requirements to become a helicopter pilot?
You need to be at least 17 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and pass a medical exam. You must also complete the required flight hours and pass various exams.
3. Do I need any previous flight experience to start training?
No, you don’t need any previous flight experience to start training.
4. What kind of aircraft do you use for training?
We use Robinson R22 and R44 helicopters for training.
5. How much does helicopter training cost?
The cost of helicopter training depends on the program you choose and the number of flight hours you need. Please contact us for specific pricing information.
6. Is financial aid available?
Yes, we offer financing options and can help you explore other financial aid options.
7. Do you offer online courses?
No, our helicopter training programs are all in-person.
8. How long does it take to complete helicopter training?
The length of our helicopter training programs varies depending on the program you choose and your availability. Private pilot training can be completed in as little as a few months, while commercial or flight instructor training can take longer.
9. What is the job outlook for helicopter pilots in Arizona?
The job outlook for helicopter pilots in Arizona is good, with a demand for pilots in industries such as tourism, firefighting, and law enforcement.
10. Can I get a job as a helicopter pilot after completing training?
While completing training is an important step to becoming a helicopter pilot, job opportunities are not guaranteed. We can help you navigate job options after completing training.
11. Is helicopter training safe?
Yes, helicopter training is safe when conducted by qualified instructors and in well-maintained aircraft.
12. Can I train in adverse weather conditions?
No, for safety reasons, we do not conduct training in adverse weather conditions.
13. What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a lesson?
Please let us know as soon as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule a lesson. We will work with you to find a time that works for both parties.
14. What if I have a concern or problem during training?
Please let your instructor or the training center know of any concerns or problems you have during training. We are here to help you succeed and want to address any issues you may have.
15. What is the first step to starting helicopter training?
The first step is to contact us to schedule an introductory flight lesson and discuss your goals and options for helicopter training.
For those wanting to learn how to fly a helicopter, consider taking helicopter training in Arizona. With programs designed for aspiring pilots, you’ll get the necessary training and knowledge to reach your aviation goals.
Thank You for Flying with Us, Kind Reader
We hope you enjoyed learning all about helicopter training in Arizona. Whether you’re a budding pilot or an aviation enthusiast, this beautiful state is the perfect place to pursue your passion in the skies. With stunning desert landscapes and experienced instructors, it’s no wonder why so many aspiring pilots choose to train here. So, thank you for joining us on this journey and don’t forget to visit again soon for more exciting reads! Happy flying!
