Q. Who can learn to fly?
A. Virtually anyone can learn; if you cn drive a car you can probably learn to fly a helicopter.Q. Are there any age or weight limits or special qualifications required?
A. You must be 16 to fly solo, and 17 to hold a PPL(H), but you can start learning at a younger age if you wish. There is no upper age limit, and no educational or other requirements. There is a weight limit per person of about 17 stone for the R22; if you are bigger than this you will need to learn on the R44.
Q. Must I be fit?
A. No. You don't even need a medical certificate to start, or to fly with an instructor. However you will need to pass a medical with a CAA approved doctor before you can fly solo.
Q. I already have a licence for f/w aircraft; will I have to do the whole course?
A. You will get a reduction in hours, depending on circumstances, but usually 6 hours. You will also be exempt from most of the ground exams. There may be similar arrangements if you hold some other aircraft licence, or a commerical licence; email me for details.
Q. How often should I fly?
A. Within reason, it's entirely up to you. Many people fly once or twice a week, obtaining their licence within a year. Some people can fly more than this, others less. I will be happy to try and fit in with your individual requirements.
