"Is There a Specific Type Rating to Move From the Piston to Turbine Helicopter?"

Jan 21, 2025

Transitioning from piston-engine helicopters to turbine-engine helicopters can be an exhilarating step in any pilot's career. However, understanding the regulatory requirements and available resources can sometimes be confusing. With the latest from Helicopter Online Ground School (H.O.G.S.), Kenny Keller dives into everything you need to know about helicopter type ratings, training resources, and additional opportunities for helicopter pilots.

 

 

The Basics - No Type Rating for Turbines:

A common question among aspiring helicopter pilots is whether a specific type rating is required to move from a piston-engine helicopter to a turbine-engine helicopter. According to host Kenny Keller, "there is no type rating. There is no additional rating to fly a jet-powered helicopter." The main criterion driving type rating requirements in helicopters boils down to the weight of the aircraft. Specifically, once a helicopter exceeds 12,500 pounds, a type rating becomes necessary.

This means a pilot can transition from a small piston-engine helicopter such as the R22 directly to a turbine helicopter like the JetRanger without needing a new type rating. This same principle applies to twin-engine helicopters — no type rating is necessary unless the aircraft exceeds the 12,500-pound weight threshold.

 

 

Utilizing H.O.G.S. Free Resources

One of the standout resources mentioned by Kenny Keller is AskHogs.com. Designed as a comprehensive Q&A platform, this site provides access to 14 years worth of content, ranging from blogs and podcasts to videos. As Kenny points out, “there's over 6 million words piped into my clone.” What's revolutionary about Ask H.O.G.S. is that this resource is available 24/7. Pilots-in-training can access immediate answers to their questions, whether they’re engaged in flight or ground training. This makes it an extremely convenient tool for continuous learning and problem-solving.

An Essential Starting Point: Private Pilot & Beyond

For those just beginning their helicopter training journey, downloading the free PDF, "Private Pilot 101- A Helicopter Training Blueprint" at privateblueprint.com is an excellent first step. This comprehensive guide addresses the top ten frequently asked questions about learning to fly a helicopter, such as:

- Is learning how to fly a helicopter difficult?
- How long will it take to become a private pilot?
- How much will it cost to become a private pilot?

Course-Specific Updates and Membership Opportunities

Advancements in technology and the availability of newer training helicopters necessitate frequent course updates. Currently, the R-22 and R-44 specific courses of H.O.G.S. are being refreshed with new videos and images, ensuring that members receive the most current training materials available.

Whether you have a monthly membership or a specialized package, these updates are accessible without any additional cost, making continuous learning seamless and accessible.

Monetizing Your Expertise:

Additionally, instructors and passionate aviators can benefit from the H.O.G.S. affiliate program. By sharing this resource with others, affiliates can earn 50% commissions on memberships. A simple sign-up provides access to a dashboard with unique affiliate links, and potential earnings can be substantial.

Final Approach Course: Spring Availability 

For those nearing the completion of their training, the Final Approach Course offers a tailored experience to polish their skills. Limited spots are available for the Spring of 2025, with a short questionnaire to determine eligibility.