Where do experimental helicopters fit in the aviation world? Obviously not doing tours of Maui, not as an air taxi to major airports, not firefighting, and not being used in a flight school. So, what are they good for?
Have you always wanted to fly a helicopter? Have you looked into the cost of training at a commercial flight school? Scary, right?! The hourly rate the school charges for flight training has to include the cost of the facility, administrative expenses, the CFI’s salary, fuel and maintenance of the certified helicopter, and outrageous insurance. No wonder it’s so expensive at a flight school! Training in your own experimental class helicopter costs far less. The money you save will go a long way toward a helicopter of your own.
Whether you are a fixed wing pilot or you’ve never been off the ground, you can get your rotorcraft license in an experimental. In either situation, a flight instructor can train you in your own Safari Helicopter. When the instructor decides you’re ready, your check ride can be done in that same helicopter. Safari owners find that getting their license in their own helicopter is not only the least expensive path but also the safest. Because training is inexpensive, they fly with an instructor far more than required.
What else can do you? Land at your favorite restaurants, fly to the beach, impress your friends, go out for ice cream, fly to work, or take some aerial photography. Whatever you decide to do with your helicopter, you can be sure that it will always be an adventure!
