Instrument Rating- Best Way to Build Time Between Private and Commercial
Jan 07, 2025The journey from private to commercial pilot certification is a thrilling and challenging process that demands dedication, strategic planning, and effective time management. In today's recent upload from Kenny Keller, creator of Helicopter Online Ground School (H.O.G.S.), we will explore some of the best ways to build flight hours and delve into the benefits of obtaining an instrument rating early in your training. We'll also look into additional opportunities to accumulate hours productively.
Why the Instrument Rating Matters
As highlighted by Kenny Keller, obtaining your instrument rating is a crucial step you should consider after acquiring your private pilot license and before pursuing commercial certification. The instrument rating not only sharpens your piloting skills by teaching you how to navigate and control the helicopter using only its instruments but also significantly enhances your safety, thus potentially saving your life in precarious situations.
Building Time Efficiently
Instrument training presents an efficient way to accumulate flight hours. This training period allows you to log Pilot-in-Command (PIC) time when flying with an instructor, adding valuable experience to your logbook that counts toward the hours needed for your commercial certification. Moreover, the skills acquired through this training will make you a more competent and confident pilot, equipping you with the necessary tools to handle various weather conditions and unforeseen circumstances.
Exploring Alternative Methods to Build Flight Hours
Often, one of the hurdles in progressing toward commercial certification is finding cost-effective ways to log additional flight hours. One method Kenny Keller recommends is to research opportunities for ferry flights. These are often infrequent and require some effort to locate, but they provide practical flight experience and crucial logged hours.
Another avenue to explore is local television stations, particularly those that operate helicopters. Some news stations might allow you to join flights at a reduced rate. During these flights, an instructor might be busy with operational tasks like communicating with the station, giving you the opportunity to accumulate PIC time. Although these opportunities may take some digging to find, they offer an excellent way to build hours while gaining unique experiences.
Pipeline Patrol and Other Niche Flight Opportunities
Kenny also mentioned his personal experience with pipeline patrol as an effective method of building flight hours. During these flights, pilots often perform straightforward maneuvers, guiding the helicopter along the pipeline for inspection purposes, while an instructor supervises and directs the operation. While the specific school Kenny flew for no longer offers this type of flight, similar opportunities can be found with some research and networking.
H.O.G.S. Free Resources
To support aspiring pilots, Kenny Keller’s H.O.G.S. platform offers an innovative resource called "Ask Hogs." This tool is accessible 24/7 and allows members to ask training-related questions directly, drawing from over 14 years of compiled content, including blogs, podcasts, videos, and more. This treasure trove of information can assist pilots in navigating their training journey and finding answers to specific queries promptly.
Additionally, for those starting or considering the private pilot path, H.O.G.S. offers a free introductory resource, the "Private Pilot 101- A Helicopter Training Blueprint." This comprehensive guide covers essential questions and topics such as the cost and duration of training, differences between helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, and recommended training supplies. It’s a valuable starting point for anyone serious about pursuing a helicopter pilot career.
Specialized Training and Checkouts
For pilots seeking more hands-on experience, Hogs offers practical training sessions, often tailored to specific aircraft such as the R-22 and R-44 helicopters. Kenny explains that their training services can include check-rides, SFAR (Special Federal Aviation Regulation) checkouts, and other personalized training requirements. These services cater to pilots looking to refine their skills, finish up certifications, or gain additional flying time in specific helicopter models.
Moving from a private to a commercial pilot certification isn't just about clocking hours; it's about thoughtfully constructing your training to include valuable, practical experience that prepares you for a successful career. By integrating strategic elements such as acquiring an instrument rating and seeking diverse flying opportunities, you can build a robust foundation for your professional journey. Utilize the resources available through platforms like Hogs, and remember that a well-planned path will lead you not only to certification but also to a safer, more proficient piloting future.
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