Helicopter pilot jobs can vary in their nature and responsibilities. This sort of pilot flies single or multi-engined helicopters for a number of different services including business, leisure and emergencies.
Helicopter jobs require a great deal of training and experience, but are thoroughly rewarding. If you are considering
aviation jobs, see the following guide on helicopter pilots.
Helicopter Jobs – Flight Duties
Helicopter pilot jobs include preparing for a flight so that the upcoming journey is safe. The pilot must:
• Check weather and airspace conditions along the intended route
• File flight plans
• Figure out how much fuel is needed and what the maximum loads are
• Carry out safety checks, and ensure that equipment and instruments are in good working order
• Communicate with air traffic control
In flight, the pilot must use numerous instruments to control the height and speed of the helicopter. Once landed, paperwork must be completed. You may work on your own or with a team.
Qualifications and Skills Required for Helicopter Pilot Jobs
Most aviation jobs require certain skills and qualifications due to the highly technical nature and safety elements of the work.
Helicopter pilot jobs are no exception. You must be over 18 and have a license from the Joint Aviation Authorities (JAA). Depending on the type of flights you want to work, there are certain qualifications necessary that can be extremely expensive. However, once trained, the salary can reach up to £60,000.
Helicopter pilot jobs can be very different to flying fixed wing aircraft and
helicopter jobs are generally not interchangeable with those of aeroplanes. Of all the
aviation jobs,
helicopter pilot jobs may possibly be the most varied. Read on to find out more about finding
helicopter pilot jobs.
Helicopter Aviation Jobs
- The first step to finding helicopter pilot jobs is to gain all the necessary licenses required to be able to apply for helicopter jobs. This can be done in a number of ways such as attending a private flight school to getting training with the military, coastguard or police etc.
- Aviation jobs with helicopters can be hugely varied. For instance, the coastguard coordinates air-sea rescue and monitors the coast while those with helicopter pilot jobs with the police can expect to track criminals or provide surveillance. The military offer a wide range of aviation jobs. Private helicopter pilot jobs can include taking aerial photography, transporting passengers or even agricultural work.
- There are several different types of licenses for helicopter pilot jobs. To take paying passengers, you will need a commercial license which will require extra examinations and flying hours. Flying hours are the key to finding aviation jobs as the more experience you have, the more likely you are to land helicopter pilot jobs.
- Provided that you have the right licenses and certificates, becoming a helicopter flying instructor can be an excellent way to find other helicopter pilot jobs as you are not only earning money but also constantly increasing your flight hours.
You can search for a wide range of
helicopter pilot jobs here on Airline Pilots. Make sure that you search regularly as helicopter pilot jobs can be in short supply and will often get filled very quickly.