Why Fly Helicopters?

Flying a helicopter is more than just a skill - it's an adventure, a challenge, and a career opportunity like no other. Whether you're flying for fun, pursuing a new career, or seeking an exciting change in your life, helicopter aviation offers limitless possibilities. 

Few things compare to the exhilaration of hovering above the earth, feeling the freedom of flight. Helicopters provide a unique and thrilling flying experience that fixed-wing-aircraft simply can't match. 

Helicopters are complex and dynamic aircraft, requiring pilots to be fully engaged throughout the entire flight. Unlike airplanes that often rely on auto-pilot, helicopter pilots are hands-on at all times, making every flight an exciting challenge!

Helicopters can land almost anywhere - from remote mountain peaks to tight urban rooftops - offering accessibility and versatility that other aircraft simply cannot match. Whether it's rescue missions, oil rig transport, or corporate travel, helicopters provide a practical solution in countless industries. 

The time required to become a professional helicopter pilot depends on training availability and flight experience. To earn a Commercial Pilot License (CPL), Instrument Rating (IFR), and Instructor Certifications (CFI & CFII), you'll need a minimum of 150 flight hours. After achieving CFI certification, pilots typically build flight experience by instructing students, logging 500-1500 hours while earning a modest income. Once you have the necessary hours, you can pursue entry-level jobs such as sightseeing tours or oil rig transport. 

 Training Timeline: Expect to spend around two years as a flight instructor before securing a $60,000+/year position. 

Many people dream of flying as children - helicopter aviation can turn that dream into reality. The demand for helicopter pilots is strong, particularly in industries such as:

 ✔ Oil & Gas Transport
✔ Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
✔ Corporate & VIP Aviation
✔ Sightseeing & Tourism
✔ Utility & Long-Line Operations 

 Entry-Level Helicopter Jobs: 

Oil Rig Transport (Gulf of Mexico, International Assignments)

• Pilots typically work one-week-on, one-week-off schedules, with paid airfare home.
• International assignments (Thailand, Africa) often follow a three-week-on, three-week-off schedule, also with paid travel.
• Starting salaries: $60,000/year (can rise to $150,000/year with experience!)

Sightseeing Tours (Alaska, Florida, South Dakota & More)

• Fly tourists over stunning landscapes during peak travel seasons.
• A great way to build flight hours while working in exciting locations!

 Advanced Career Opportunities:

Corporate & VIP Transport

• Fly executives & celebrities in luxury helicopters.
• Earning Potential: $130,000+ per year (with experience!)

Long-Line Operations

• Perform precision aerial work, including lifting trees from forests, installing skyscraper air conditioners, and powerline construction.
• Earning Potential: $200,000+ per year (with specialized skills!)

EMS & Medevac (Emergency Medical Services)

• Provide critical emergency transport and life-saving flights.
• Often a steady career path for pilots with jet-powered helicopter experience.
• Industry joke: EMS = "Earn Money Sleeping" due to downtime between flights!

The View From Your New Office… 

A career in helicopter aviation offers:

An exciting, dynamic work environment
Competitive salaries & steady career growth
The adventure of flying every day

While you may not become rich overnight, you’ll live a life filled with adventure, a comfortable salary, and a thrilling career unlike any other.

Start Your Journey Today!

How to Get Started:
📧 Email: admin@interstatehelicopters.com
📞 Call: 405-440-1053

Turn your dream of flight into reality—Train with Interstate Helicopters, Inc.!