Helicopters
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TABLE OF CONTENTS |
Introduction Are You Ready to fly Helicopters - A Dream Long Realised? Becoming a helicopter pilot requires effort, determination, ambition and courage. As it is a considerable investment in time, money, and personal learning, we have tried to cram as much information into this pack to help you with your new career choice. 
Information Pack We realise that for most of you this is YOUR DREAM, and to help you achieve
this dream we would like to make it OUR GOAL. We get enquiries all the
time from students who are gathering information and so we have tried
to answer the questions we’re been asked over the years. Selecting the School that’s
right for you Selecting the school to suit your individual training needs should be based on many different criteria’s. Instructor load, helicopters used, atmosphere, training extras, hours and experience of instructors, school attention to social and other goodies that makes your training experience one to remember not just get through and tolerate. In short, your training to be a helicopter pilot is the one time in your life that you get to enjoy doing something that you always wanted to, in fact I would wager that at school and Uni (if you went) that you didn’t really get the time to totally be immersed in something that was this big. As such, we always endeavour to do our best to ensure the little things get look after whilst creating an atmosphere of fun and friendliness. International and Australian
Mix We may not be the school for you, due to travel constraints, the style of training your looking for or you simply don’t like the colour of our helicopters, and we recognise we cannot meet everyone’s needs. But we do ask you to check out all the things that are important to you. Get ex-student’s emails or phone numbers and give them a call. We have pilots who have trained with us from all over the globe and in most cases they are happy to have a chat and give you some insight into their training and experiences. No one can deny there are great schools worldwide, and that many have talented and passionate helicopters instructors. We just hope to give you a choice in picking a school that specialises in this field. We can’t boast of training anyone famous, nor do we have war heroes
as instructors, nor are there any claims to fame and fortune but we do
take what we do seriously. Mix in a sense of humour, competitions, social
events, diverse team and we’d wager training with us will be one
of the most frustrating exhilarating, emotional, testing, yet best times
of your life. Our Training Facilities and
Location We operate in un-congested Primary Controlled airspace that allows training
to commence as soon as you take off, providing you with maximum benefit
for every flying hour. Some helicopter school training areas are 20 minutes
from the airfield. That equates to approximately 10 hours just flying
to your training site over the course of a licence. Controlled and Uncontrolled
Airspaces A helicopter, unless city based, rarely needs an airport, and in fact during most of your career you will be either designated to fly in special chopper lanes or in more remote areas. Therefore, the benefits of flying in and out of controlled airspace are limited to some training situations but definitely a plus when it comes to you building confidence on the radio and learning how to operate within controlled airspace. Rest assured in your helicopter career you will have to talk on the radio
and go into different airspace. You might as well learn it in your initial
training. Private Training Strips Mountains and Confined Areas Main Training Helipads and
Waiting Times Great Weather for Training Having said that; there is still much to do when the rain causes you to be grounded. The board briefs, evaluations, and endorsement questions give you plenty to do. Rain is not an excuse to swan at home watching soap operas on television. Time is money and nothing is more frustrating than a lack of sunshine
to train. Some schools maintain it takes 34 weeks to get a PPL (H); we
have completed a CPL (H) in that time. The length of time it takes to
get a licence can impact your living budget; the chance of jobs, and the
length of time between flights make a difference in your continuity. Accommodation
and food is a big consideration , obviously you have to live whilst training.
Brisbane International and
Domestic Airports You can catch a connecting flight from Brisbane International or Brisbane Domestic Airport (they are side by side) to the Sunshine Coast Airport by flying Virgin Blue or QANTAS. Qantas and Virgin Blue also fly direct from Sydney or Melbourne. The Internet is a great way to book flights. When booking request either Maroochydore or Sunshine Coast as your end destination. The airport here is called ‘Sunshine Coast Airport’. Some booking agents use the Airport name rather than the town (Maroochydore). Alternatively you can catch a bus with Sunair Bus Services, they can be reached by telephone 61+ (07) 5478 2811 or via their website at: At the Domestic Terminal, the Sunair Bus Service is located at the Coach Trans counter opposite the Virgin counter. At the International Terminal the Sunair Bus Service is at the Travellers Info counter on the left-hand side after you exit the arrival and customs hall. If there are no buses, wait awhile, as they run on a rotating schedule and they may be delayed from loading other passengers from another terminal. You can call their local number and they will contact the driver’s on his mobile. It is important that you notify us of your arrival time. If you are arriving
after 5pm on a weekday, book yourself into a local hotel or motel for
the night then make your way to the school the following day. This stops
late night arrivals at the pilothouse which could disrupt students sleeping
and of course there’s the security factor. Banking and Credit Card Facilities We recommend that you purchase a credit card prior to coming to the school. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted cards; Amex and Diners are not as well received. You find purchasing CASA documents, booking exams, paying for medicals far easier to pay with a credit card. We strongly recommend that all overseas students open a bank account within six weeks of arrival. To open an account you need only your passport. After six weeks you have to produce rent receipts and a driver’s licence. Opening a Westpac Banking Corporation bank account allows you to have an ATM card with access to Internet banking. If you sign a fax indemnity form with Westpac this allows you to transfer funds from your bank account to Becker Helicopters without going into the bank. The transfer is instant, which saves you a lot of travel time to the bank and back. We advise that you don’t open a bank account in Australia without
physically being in the country. Should anything happen and you are unable
to arrive in Australia you will NOT be able to get your money returned.
Under new International law they have bought this in as an added security
measure for unaccompanied funds in bank accounts. You can place monies
into the students fund account and we will transfer that across upon your
arrival. Accommodation The accommodation is only a short 10 minutes walk away from the school. There are only limited places and bookings need to be made early. There is also a minimum stay of 4 weeks. Four weeks notice needs to be given prior to moving otherwise you will be charged. At our pilot accommodation there is a pool, BBQ area, putting green and tennis courts. We offer the choice of casual / temporary accommodation arrangements depending on your needs and budget. Shared accommodation with other pilots is also available. This comprises of a shared bedroom with one other student pilot, bed linen, bath towel, electricity, water and insurance. There is a phone installed which can receive calls only from family and friends so that you can keep in touch with home. The phone can be used for Internet access and incurs a nominal charge
and connection fee per call. We can assist in setting up a local Internet
provider to ensure cheaper calls and log on times. The living areas are
communal and are self-contained. Description Shared bedroom Bed linen and bath towel Electricity, Water and Public liability Insurance Communal living areas Self contained (utensils, cutlery, plates etc provided) Single bedroom Three meals made daily Includes all laundry Insurance for Personal Items Alternative Accommodation If you prefer not to sign a six-month lease the Saturday issue of the Sunshine Coast Daily (local newspaper) has pages of shared accommodation arrangements. Either way there are many choices and styles available. The average rent for a one bedroom apartment is $150-$230 per week fully furnished. Two and three bedrooms average between $195-$340 per week. The average rent for a 3 bedroom apartment is $250 per week. Remember, sharing with other students can save you money, you can study with each other and basically muck in together. For other styles of accommodation for family’s, pets, cabins or something non-sharing contact
Professionals North Shore Phone: 61+(07) 5448 7700 Contact: Tony Brown or Donna. These guys are great and will be more than helpful for rentals, and sales.
North Shore Realty 936 David Low Way
Raine & Horne 924 David Low Way This will take you to the head office at Mooloolaba, please ask for Judee O’Leary at the Marcoola Office.
Ray White David Low Way Ask for Sara in rentals.
Twin Waters Realty Twin Waters Shopping Village Ask for Jason regarding rentals. Queensland Tourism The other way to see what accommodation, rental apartments, and real estate agents are available is on Yellow Pages www.yellowpages.com.au Look under Key words: Real Estates, or Accommodation, Apartments, Rentals.
The area is: QLD-Sunshine Coast, Mudjimba Postcode 4564, or Coolum Beach
about 13 minutes away. The postcode is 4573. Transportation and Getting
Around Town Check out www.sunbus.com.au for their timetables, select Sunshine Coast. Alternatively, we are only a 12-minute taxi ride to town, the cost is about $13-15 appoximately and there is a taxi rank at the airport. Many students buy a car when they arrive, for between $1,000 to $3,000
and then re-sell it on to future students. Some students purchase little
50cc scooters to get themselves around. Rest and Recreation www.bookingoffice.com.au/state/qld/scoast/scoast.html Your Chief Flying Instructor
- Captain Mike Becker Mike’s passion for helicopters is evident when you meet him. He believes the next 5-10 years are going to be one of the most exciting times for helicopter pilots with opportunities opening world wide. Mike’s book - “Mike Becker’s Helicopter Handbook” won the “Queensland Minister’s Training Initiative Award” towards excellence in training. A very prestigious award. His book is sold worldwide and marries up the theory with the practical applications relevant for you, the pilot. Mike is proud to be part of the next generation of helicopter pilots. Never has there been a time in recent history of helicopter flying when so much is developing, expanding, and changing. Mike is very unique in the type and amount of experience he has gained in his helicopter career. With over 10,300 rotary flying hours, most at high altitude in mountain operations long lining, you have a sure guarantee that you are getting taught by someone who has been involved in many varied helicopter operations. Mike makes no apologies for his experience. He has worked in places no other pilots would go and stayed longer than most. That level of commitment and great attitude is what Mike attributes to any successful pilots career. He hopes to instil that attitude in all his students. His career has taken him from the high country of New Zealand to the Outback of the Northern Territory and on to the mountains and wetlands of Papua New Guinea. Mike was on a single-minded pursuit of any helicopter flying that would take him to the next step in his career. He travelled for six years (with Jan, his wife, who worked as a Registered General and Psychiatric Nurse and Midwife whilst Mike flew) through PNG from contract to contract, flying anything from the Twin engine Bell 212, the Sikorsky 62, the famous Bell 205 (Iroquois), Squirrel, Jet Ranger, Long Ranger, Hughes 500 and most types in between. In his 18 years of practical experience, search and rescue, tourist flying, mustering, geo surveys, photography, fire fighting, sling loads and much more, Mike’s experience means the training he provides will give you a practical perspective, to be able to relate the training to real working situations. He also passes the torch to his team of Instructors. Students who are performing above average will have a sling load endorsement, low flying and mountain training as well as an extra helicopter type included within their commercial training. The helicopter jobs in PNG, Asia and other parts of the world carry the certainty that you will be slinging equipment, food, supplies etc, to remote locations. It is better to learn from someone with thousands of hours of sling, high altitude operations experience while you have the opportunity. During your training (in the standard 105 hour course) you will most likely do 80 hours in one helicopter type (usually the Hughes 300) and another 25 hours in the second type (usually the Bell 47). This gives you a good solid skill level in two types. Tip: Take the time to find out who is going to be training you both on the ground and in the helicopter. Best of all, you will get a few laughs. Mike believes your training, whilst it’s a very serious pursuit, should be one of the most enjoyable moments of your career. No one forgets the impact of his or her first SOLO, or mastering the hover, or seeing themselves on DVD footage with themselves actually flying. Mike started Becker Helicopters out of an old run down shed at Noosa, with run down chairs and tables, a white board, and a porta-potty for a loo. That used to be the marketing ploy of competitors in the early days, bagging Mike’s lack of “modern facilities”. Whilst the facilities have improved out of sight there are still times when might see Mike going over some aerodynamics impromptu to a bunch of students on back of napkin on the BBQ table out back. He believed, as he still does, that the students always saw past the lack of flash premises and were hungry for the learning, experience, enthusiasm and energy that Mike and his instructors always have. The atmosphere made up for the lack of aesthetics. Students who trained with us back then have gone on to some great flying jobs. They have fond memories of BBQ’s, fellow students and they laugh about the challenges of going to the loo on a 38-degree day, that's Celsius! As Becker Helicopters grew, so did the need for better facilities and more creature comforts. Our training facilities are now open plan with fresh colours and the theory room has air-conditioning. We are still growing; expanding our facilities with more classrooms and a new hangar. Mike holds an ATPL (H), CPL (A) and Grade One Instructors rating, Helicopter instrument rating and a TAFE teaching course certificate. Mike endeavours to provide realistic and practical training, to provide you with a good grounding in the practical skills of flying helicopters, out in the real world, putting you in good stead for the career ahead of you. The Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) employed Mike to assist in the writing and development of the Competency Based Syllabus (CBT) for Helicopter Pilots along with some great guys like Phil Astley on Canberra. His temporary ID pass into CASA was number 007, he thought that was kinda cool. Mike doesn’t boast to be a leader in this field but says the team who he worked with in CASA were talented and they had a lot of fun despite the long days of nutting out this new CBT syllabus. Mike teaches the CBT syllabus and as the Winner of the Minister’s Training Initiative Award it shows that he’s always looking for better ways to teach the students to take them on the career he still loves. Mike has changed many men and women’s lives. He’s seen the change that happens when they realise that the dream to fly is becoming a reality. When you ask Mike what is the single most enjoyable part of his position, he will always say “The buzz of seeing the students eyes after they have completed
their first SOLO flight. It’s exciting to be part of that dream
which is now becoming a reality… A privilege really… I have
never forgotten Reg Ellwood who taught me to fly” Commercial Helicopter Theory A completely new course covering all aspects of helicopter-based aviation
was the result of the extensive consultation. The new course will take
7-8 weeks to complete, and is well paced, relevant and intensive with
individual attention given to all students. International Aviation Theory
Pty Ltd Our Mission Ian Poad - Course Development and Director He has been involved directly with application development in the Training, Publication and Aviation Industries since 1991. Prior to this he was an operational Fixed Wing EMS Pilot with both the Aerial Ambulance and Royal Flying Doctor Service. Based on references collected over 20 years in the Aviation Industry, Ian developed his initial Airline Transport Pilots Licence ATPL(H) Course notes in 1997/98 to meet the requirements of the then current syllabus. Back then it was based on the Puma Helicopter. Between 1994 and 1996 Ian was employed by Fairfax Publications and was made responsible for the integration of database data captive technology with standard pre-press and image setter software. From 1996 to 1998 he developed the software content for an Aviation Training Business specialising in the online training of Helicopter Pilots to an Airline Transport Pilot Licence standard. This ran successfully and he was able to update and change course content dynamically with each course. The online platform was in its infancy and has grown with technology advances. Since 1998 Ian’s focus has been on the research and development of the system now at the core of E Travel System. Because of Training Contracts and following the CASA changes to the syllabus in early 2002, IAT employed Ian as a full time course researcher and writer, using his expertise in databases. He went on and expanded his research and development project to bring to the industry a course where you can study for the ATPL theory examination at your own pace, completing modules in your home, workplace or even while you’re traveling. Ian Poad - Philosophy Core Values We have found this portal and delivery provides a professional, committed and supportive environment. The Panel Almost every person is, or has been, an active operational flying member of the International Aviation community. The one exception is a highly qualified Post Graduate of Education, a Specialist with QUT (Queensland University of Technology). No complimentary licences to give the Instructors a title here! The depth and range of experience guiding this program is incredible. They include an ex Empire Test Pilot, an ex CASA and CAA staff, University Academics, IFR and EMS pilots operating from Alaska to New Zealand. From this extraordinary basis of knowledge and experience, all of us who are engaged in this premier program are dedicated to providing a contemporary, relevant course based on situational awareness as required by CASA and focused not only on passing the exams but preparing you for the flying element by making the course interesting, topical and integrating the theory with real world experience. Situational awareness is one of the major changes introduced by CASA. It is no longer enough to rote learn and memorise subjects anymore. Using Vortex Ring State as an example, in the old days a definition would suffice. Now you need to demonstrate how to get in it; and how to get out of it; and how to recognise it. Industry Best Practice Courseware Feedback Our Lecturers, why are they different to others? CASA changed the exam format in 2002 and many companies have not changed their courses to suit the new requirements. The experience of an ATPL (H) pilot with 10,000 hours cannot be underestimated when it comes to imparting practical hands on experience to his students. You can tell good pilots, not only by the way they fly, but also by the way they care about their reputation, presentation, aircraft, passengers and fellow crew. The basis of this is excellent training is attitude and not necessarily aptitude. It’s more than a duty. It’s a matter of professional pride. It is attention to detail and the desire to learn and improve. There is much more to being a pilot than the ability to operate an aircraft. If you possess the above then you are the type of student we want to teach. Prepared in the best possible professional, committed and supportive environment for learning, the successful student will be will sought after by the industry who acknowledge the professional growth of pilots who trained through the IAT System. Career Path Plans and Economic Gain A pilot who has complete confidence in the quality of his training, who has the desire to always keep learning and improving while maintaining the dedication and discipline that got him that qualification, will have been prepared to achieve throughout his career in this very competitive industry. Do you want to become part of the next generation of pilots? Our task is to encourage, inspire and train this generation. There is no such thing as luck when it comes to obtaining jobs at this level. It is when preparation meets opportunity. Many pilot’s have been ill prepared to apply for jobs at this level because they haven’t been prepared or mindful of their career path planning. We provide you with the competitive edge, with courses focused, professional and dedicated to the highest safety standards and best industry practice. Our CPL Helicopter course is not structured like a dry theory course, but as a broad based introduction to all the concepts that must become second nature to a career pilot. This approach makes the course relevant to both future in-flight training, and the CASA Theory examinations. By using the classroom time available in this manner, the CASA exams are viewed as a milestone in preparing for in-flight training, rather than some barrier that must be overcome before flying begins. Meeting your needs for tomorrow is all about having the power to achieve the goal today. We provide the resources, combined with your commitment, to be two steps ahead of the competition. We anticipate opportunities that will be there for the best-qualified pilots of tomorrow so your career path will open before you. It is your choice but we believe really there is only one choice. International
Aviation Theory. In-House Helicopter Theory
Ground School With both individual and team approaches to your ground learning, we
have had a resounding success with the new Cyberexam system. Who is teaching your CPL
course? Fly some hours before your
Theory starts Flying Solo
We strongly recommend that you pass all your Cyberexam subjects before
flying more hours. Flying without passing your exams will only be an expensive
joyride. What can you learn from 40 hours going around and around in a
circuit area? Independent Theory Providers
versus Flight Schools Now don’t get us wrong, some theory providers do a fantastic job and they provide quality courses for a purely theoretical qualification; like for instance ATPL, they are some of the best in the game because they are providing a great service in pure theory. It is hard to match a University or theory school lecturer being able to explain in full colour some of the aspect of helicopters flight in the same way as an actively flying CPL Ground Instructors. Because your Commercial Pilots licence holds a major component of flying and a largest part of your investment Helicopter flight schools are by far the best to be able to provide valuable up to date training, they have the helicopters, the Instructors and also other students who are at various levels of their training that can be of great assistance to you during your theory and flight training. CPL theory is an intense eight week. Over 400 pages of extra information, diagrams, working examples and explanations have been added to meet the exam base of questions and syllabus changed. Cut away parts, mini piston engine all moving parts, turbo charger, cut away blades, fuel samples, and a broad range of DVDs showing meteorological conditions, aerodynamics, and even the beginning of helicopter flight showing Igor Sikorsky himself flying one of his first helicopters. All these are there to make your learning more enjoyable and interesting. Pass Rates Our first time sittings pass rate average is 92%. But for each pass and failure we ensure we update course content and make the course as current and up to date as possible. Some of these challenges have been ironed out with some slack been given by CASA and ASL for exam re-sit times to allow students to progress through their subjects despite failing only one subject. The pass rates for the CASA Cyberexam are much higher than they have ever been in the past. The sheer volume and content that has to go through is about 50-60% more than in the old system. It’s not all bad, and nor do we mean to in some way make you believe the course is easier here. It’s not. It’s hard work and solid effort is required every day and evenings with some weekend classes booked for extra tuition if needed. All this depends on the group’s dynamics and level of understanding. Why is our Theory Course 8 weeks long? We do not deliver a short quick cheap course, but in fact we have a course that is almost double the length than the old style. It’s packed with more content and so by natural law of physics we had to extend the time spent in class. This has been welcomed by the students and it has allowed them to move through the course at a pace that is both conducive to learning and allows some of the concepts to sink in before moving to the next level. A cheap and cheerful course done in the fastest time frame possible can in many cases be your downfall. There is no way we believe you can get through all the information needed to pass your CPL exams in less than 8 weeks. Unless you have pre-studied a Home Study course and studied the subject matter before attending a course, where in most cases the concepts are seen for the first time. We have a very rigorous pre-reading program prior to attending our CPL course and this can be a very essential part of your success and keeping pace with the course. You see, flying is the fun part and everyone wants to get into the machine. But there is no gain without pain and I am afraid the Theory is one of the most challenging. Passing your CPL Exam This is particularly true for students from out in the Australian rural areas. You usually have a finite time to train usually during the wet or between harvest, mustering seasons and other specific activates on the property. For some, the lure of a quick CPL theory course has left them without
any passed subjects and time spent in a course that was too fast paced,
not current to CASA new syllabus and they are disillusioned and frustrated
because of the wasted valuable time, money and energy on an unsatisfactory
outcome. Many of these guys have to go back to the station and wait until
next season before they can train. If its worth doing its worth doing
once. Promises of free resits in class are honoured by all Theory Providers
but are of little comfort when you are back in class because it was not
thorough enough first time around. We allow any student to attend the
CPL any amount of time after his first for as many times as he likes -
for free. Past Student References The investment in our CPL eight-week course works out at $500 per week
and this is a good investment in your career start and the ability to
go on and complete your CPL 105 course in just 4-5 months. It’s
impossible without your CPL theory pass. Integrated Ground School
and Flying School Despite the term independent they are in fact co-dependant or inter-dependent on the flights schools that they cater for, in the same way that, Universities have agreement in place for flight training schools that they feed students to. For the Fixed Wing fraternity this is a sound career path to take as airlines and the very nature of fixed wing flying is more suited to a 3 years program. The ultimate aim is to join an airline or similar commuter company. Universities and some technical colleges are internationally accredited; however many small independent theory schools are not. For International students they will be unable to provide the appropriate visa. Because the course is a professional Commercial Pilots licence you are studying for, you are required to have a study visa and not tourist or visitors visa to attend the course. If your intent is to train to be a CPL pilot then you will be required to hold a study visa. For Australian students you are able to get valuable funding by the Government
($3,200 approx) that is part of the assistance given to students who train
at Accredited and fully Audited schools. It’s called AUSTUDY and
there is more about this in this information pack. We have taught some
students to fly after they have studied at University; they chose to complete
their flying training here. Those students felt things were a little fragmented
in their training and in some ways missed the camaraderie that you develop
with fellow theory students who you then go on to fly with. In all cases
these students were attending University for Degree in Aviation and Management
and not just a pure helicopter licence. It entailed usually 3 years of
study! In-House CPL Theory Schedule Our course covers the following subjects in accordance with the CASA syllabus: Aircraft General Knowledge As you can see helicopters are complex beasts. All thought the subject is called aircraft General Knowledge it should probably be called aircraft Specific Knowledge. Everything down to fuel and spark plugs etc, will be covered in order to provide you with a working knowledge of helicopter parts and systems. What’s the difference between a fully articulated and semi-rigid rotor system? Which conditions are likely to produce carb ice and how do you avoid it? Can vapour lock occur in a fuel-injected system? Aerodynamics How does the helicopter actually fly? What is this crazy group of lines and arrows? There are basic principles that apply to flight on a daily basis, and of course only thorough understanding will do. Hovering through autorotation, retreating blade stall to vortex ring state … all will be explained. The difference between pitch angle and angle of attack is? Which force acts perpendicular to relative airflow? What effect does over pitching have on your well being? Meteorology If I told you it wasn’t looking good for a flight to Ballina this afternoon would you believe me? A complete knowledge of the weather and its ramifications is essential, and with our help your understanding will be second to none. With tempo’s, TAF’s, nimbostratus, troughs and ridges, ISA, environmental lapse rates and dry and wet bulb thermometers… the list goes on and on. Arguably the most likely event to ruin an inadequately planned flight is the weather. As this subject rules our daily lives it is very interesting subject from a personal point of view as well as essential to safe flying operations. After studying the makeup of the atmosphere and looking at Pressure Temperature and Density we move on to study clouds, motion of the atmosphere, visibility, Icing and a multitude of interesting and fascinating topics. Synoptic Analysis, Upper Level Weather and Climatology all add to the extensive understanding we must have of this subject. Reference/Pre-reading Performance, Operations, Weight & Balance Yes it’s a Bell 206L III Long Ranger; what the rest means will take a bit of explaining. You’ll end up doing centre of gravity calculations in your sleep. If you have a fear of calculators, don’t, it will become your new best friend. Maximum all up weight, floor weight limits, pressure and density heights, butt lines, helicopter landing sites and external loads will all be like long lost friends. To be able to operate your helicopter to its full potential thereby yielding value for both the operator and the client while operating within the machines limits and conducting safe operations we must have a very sound knowledge of its performance envelope. Reference/Pre-reading Navigation So you want to fly somewhere. Which direction is it in, how much fuel do you need? Are you allowed to fly there? All these questions will face you daily in your commercial life. At what point do you have to turn around before you run out of fuel or are you better to keep going. How does wind effect your plans? Are you lost or just temporarily unsure of your position? Can’t you just turn on the GPS? The ability to move over the earth’s surface in a controlled manner arriving at a pre planned destination intact and on time is one of the world’s pleasures. Navigation is an art where following well-established principles will give you the ability to fly anywhere in the world with confidence. From the wonderful world of Charts and Maps through the mysterious subject of Time Zones we move into the more practical aspects of Navigation covering compasses, Gyros, Radio Navigation, Radar and Route Navigation using Area Navigation systems, Radio Navigation systems including GPS. During the course we also look at limitations and errors that these system may have, Weather Radar and the use of ERC charts for navigation and many other types of equipment used in modern navigation. Flight Rules and Air
Law Where a maintenance release in respect of an aircraft cases to be in force by virtue of an endorsement made under sub regulation 47(1), the maintenance release shall again commence to be in force if: (a) where the endorsement refers to a requirement or condition in respect of the maintenance of the aircraft not having been complied with – there is entered on the maintenance release or other document on which the endorsement was made a certification in accordance with regulation 42ZE or 42ZN, that the maintenance to which the requirement or condition relates has been completed; (b) where the endorsement refers to the aircraft having suffered major damage or having developed a major defect – there is entered on the maintenance release or other document on which the endorsement was made a certification, in accordance with regulation 42ZZE or 42ZN, that the maintenance required to remedy the damage or the defect, as the case may be, has been completed. Where would we be without rules and laws to ensure that we all operate on the same wavelength? We study subjects including Aviation Law, Rules of the Air, Airworthiness, Licensing and Air Traffic Services in this section of the course and this forms a basis for all our flying and ground operations. To know the rules is to know the system and operating within the rules, while not only safe, is peace of mind. What more can be said. Yes, you can and will make sense of it! We live in a complex and litigious world, according you need a working knowledge of air law. Human Performance Knowing how our body works is as important as knowing how our helicopter systems and equipment work. Without an understanding of how our mind and body work, we cannot operate safely in the aviation industry, as it is an unforgiving environment for the uneducated. How well we operate is directly related to how safely the helicopter operates. We are the most important element in any flight. This is another subject, which has a personal as well as an aviation element to it and through studying how we behave and process information we can understand others and ourselves. We look at Human Information Processing, Human Behaviour, Attitude Judgment
and Decision making as just some of the essential subjects we need to
understand for flying safely. Fatigue, Stress and Dehydration are everyday
occurrences but can have a very great influence on the conduct of your
operations. Cyber Exams Systems Cyber Exams for PPL examinations came online in April 2001. The remaining examinations were implemented in March 2002. Cyber Exams has been designed to address a number of limitations that previous examination systems had experienced. This has resulted in a number of advantages such as:
Additionally, the new examination system is an environmental plus as it is virtually paper-less. The examinations are presented on an Internet-capable Personal Computer at the approved venues. Candidates select the preferred answers and submit the completed examination by the click of a mouse. A Practice Exams facility is available on the CASA website, to enable interested parties to practice navigating through a typical Cyber Exams screen-based examination. CASA retains the two-tier examination system. The PPL examinations are available at approximately 250 approved flying schools throughout Australia. The venues for the professional examinations (CPL, ATPL, Flight Engineer Licence, and ratings) are managed by a professional examination-service organisation, Assessment Service Proprietary Limited (ASPL). The Cyber Exams venues for the professional examinations are available throughout Australia in 28 towns and cities. CASA has also exploited the crossover of the CPL examination to Cyber Exams to convert this examination into seven subject-part examinations, rather than the single-paper examination it previously provided. This CPL examination scheme is similar to that for the ATPL. Some subject-part examinations will be common for both Aeroplanes and Helicopters. Under Cyber Exams, provided the candidate has the requisite qualifications, he/she may attempt any of these 7 subjects as and when he/she desires but must pass all within 3 years (counting from the first attempt). CASA's website www.casa.gov.au
posts and updates information on this system. For more information e-mail:
cyberexams@casa.gov.au Assessment Services Ltd (ASL) What do I bring to the School? DVD Library DVDs on weather patterns, meteorology, different hazards, and training
scenarios all compliment the 21 helicopter training DVDs that Mike produced
here at Becker Helicopters in real training sessions. Past students made
it many times to the final cut in the flying sequences. Distance Education How old must I be? How difficult is flying? Most people get the hang of it after 10-20 hours or so. It requires concentrated effort and application. It is a bit like riding a bike - once you can do it you don’t ever forget. Quality Assurance Accreditation The accreditation means that we have opened our school up for a full
audit on all procedures and aspects of training. International Students and
Accreditation Tuition Assurance Scheme
with ACPET – Insurance Our course is recognised internationally. Some of our international students
get one-year full credit from their study course. VETEC Accreditation
also means our CPL (H) course is GST (Goods and Services Tax) exempt.
The Sunshine Coast University (about 10-15 minutes from here) gives you
6 months credit towards a Degree In Business. The Credits go towards your
electives. After your Flight Test “Commercial Helicopter Pilots Licence” For your Private Pilots Licence level we issue a certificate stating you have achieved “Private Helicopter Pilots Licence” Should you be unable to complete the full requirements of the course
you will receive a Certificate of Attainment for the modules and flying
that you have already completed. This will assist you in gaining credits
for future study you may wish to undertake. Because we have Government
recognition, the full Certificate qualification can be used as credit
for future study you may wish to undertake. The transcript of your training
is a valuable record of what you have achieved and the sequences you have
completed in the helicopter. Austudy / Income Assistance
Internet Workstation…
Surf the Net We have great resources like 300 Best Aviation sites and lots of link
pages to have fun with. We charge a monthly rate for Internet use and
it's proving to be the link to home for most of our students. If you have
a laptop you can log on at the pilothouse you are staying at. You can’t
use your laptop to access email at the school. Mike Becker’s Helicopter
Handbook The ISBN number is: 0 646 38777 4. This allows you to purchase the book on-line from overseas outlets. Each chapter carries some of Mike’s enthusiasm, knowledge and love of helicopters and is designed with the learning pilot in mind, which includes all of us. It is written in a very easy to understand language. It is rare that a working pilot is able to marry up sound theory with flight experience to produce a book designed to be read and used at the same time. This book is available from Becker Helicopters, or your local pilot supply shop in Australia, just ask for one. This is the one book every helicopter pilot should have, remembering,
it won the regional Queensland Training award for its content and uniqueness.
Helicopter Training DVDs
- 21 different titles Note: Its worth noting these DVDs are warts and all. A very real-time
classroom situation (in real time) not studio DVDs, the information
is excellent and informative. Boring and stale they are not. Pilot’s Supplies Helicopter Maintenance Experience Engineering Hanger, Classrooms, Flight
Operations, Facilities We have executive classrooms (that means good colours to study by, lights, air conditioning, whiteboard and overhead projector) with modern and some not so modern furnishings. Our Headquarters at Sunshine Coast Airport offers two kitchenettes, microwave, toaster, BBQ, three lecture rooms and one very slow but dedicated student Internet computer. There is another computer for Flight Simulator training, Instrument tutorials and some PC computer games. The hanger is brand new, large breezy and has its own kitchenette, toilets, office engineering facility and all the gar to clean, polish, grease and polish the helicopters a the end of each flying day. The Airport Café has meal plans for those of you who don’t
enjoy cooking. The café offers meal deals starting from $5.50 for
one meal a day, $5.00 each for two meals a day or $4.50 each for three
meal deals a day. Inform the café you are a student at Becker Helicopters
and you will receive 10% discount on all coffee or tea purchased. Engine Parts Cutaway Piston engines with moving cylinders, magnetos, a turbo charger, carburettors,
blades cut away, swash plates, grips, cables etc. All these parts make
the learning more interesting and provide insight into the mechanics of
helicopters. 10 Steps to Becoming a Helicopter
Pilot There are Helicopter School lists you can obtain. The most Comprehensive and totally independent list is from Australian Aviation Magazine. Phone: +61 2 6280 0111. They list all schools. You need to select a flight training school that not only meets your training needs but you also need to consider living costs, adverse weather impacting on training time, resources provided to you by the school, types of machines trained in and things to do on your days off. Most importantly you need to select the instructor (or instructors) who
will be taking you throughout the first steps towards your helicopter
career. Some will select a school on the hourly flying cost, this may
save you a small amount of money initially but look into the quality of
training and related costs, as they say, you get what you pay for. If
you have been promised work post-training by the school, fantastic …
but get it in writing! Also look at www.casa.gov.au for some more Australian
schools listed. Your Aviation Medical Prior to Arrival * If you can’t open this page go to the CASA home page and click aviation medicals from the middle links. Medical conditions that may not allow you to be a pilot include diabetes, cardiac conditions and some cardiac and respiratory medications, some heart conditions and some endocrinological (thyroid/diabetes) conditions. Colour-blindness/Glasses/Contacts Australian / New Zealand Students International Students Finally all international students must have Health Insurance Cover. Step 5 Flying prior to the course will give you some invaluable practical knowledge to apply to your theory. You get valuable radio work, and have a working knowledge of how the collective relates to manifold pressure and RPM. This helps when answering and learning about these things. The practical knowledge goes along way towards understanding your theory subjects. Your Theory training then begins and after eight weeks you should have
passed your CASA Theory Exams and be ready to move into full time flying
training. Note: You need to have completed at least a Class 2 Aviation Medical
before you can receive your Student Pilot’s Licence. This Licence
allows you to fly SOLO in the local training area, under Supervision. A newly accredited Helicopter pilot - Congratulations, a celebration,
BBQ and awarding of your Certificate and memorabilia from your training.
The paper work is sent into CASA and your licence is issued within 7-10
working days. Captain your helicopter awaits! One exciting new program we have started with pilots who have completed their training is to go on to do an extra 25 hours Pilot in Command in the outback. You get to fly with another more experienced pilot and have the best of both worlds - log the hours and also gain invaluable experience with the other pilot. This is an amazing way to get those few extra hours. Strictly limited numbers and subject to a number of criteria. The “Rookie” program (only available to Becker Helicopter students) is another program that we run with two companies in Australia. You work in the hangar and then work your way up to the Flight Roster. We have had six pilots through this with excellent success. The first pilot through it now has 2,000 hours. We ask for a three-year commitment. Another way pilots are getting their hours up is to go back to work and
to fly when they can. Over time they build their hours until they can
land their first flying job. They keep their hand in by reading all the
magazines, getting the job clipping service and all in all staying immersed
in the helicopter world. Keep applying and you will get there. We see
it all the time. It takes courage, commitment and staying power and you
will achieve your dreams. Trial Instructional Flight
The Trial Instructional Flight consists of a 40 minute DVD briefing on the helicopter, how it works, what the controls do and what you will be expected to do during the flight. We will then take you flying for 30 minutes. Whilst in the air your Instructor will demonstrate the controls and then give the controls to you to have a go. You will experience forward flight, hovering, low flying and what happens when the engine fails (don't worry, the helicopter still fly’s!). After landing we can discuss your future and help you map out a plan. The flight time can then be counted towards your training, so why not
buy a Log Book and that can be your first entry. INVEST IN THE FIRST STEP TO BECOMING A HELICOPTER PILOT What They Say About Us “I’ve had a wonderful time at Becker Helicopters. I was there for close to a year, and I have come back with many happy memories. The flying instruction was always personal, and one was allowed to make mistakes and learn from them. One incident comes to mind. I have a mild speech impairment, which goes full throttle when I am not talking to a person face to face. So, initially talking to the tower was almost paralytic. Both Mike and Dean were patient with me, prompting me with hand signals! I must clarify, that in time I had my radio calls down to an art. The non-flying staff were always there for you, more so for matters not concerning the school. On nearing completion of my CPL(H), I asked for information about work visa. Maraina called the government long distance enquiring about the nitty-gritty of working in Australia. I don’t think I was charged for that call. Jan on the other hand bought US currency from me at a rate higher than the banks were paying. As I was running short of money to pay the last instalment of my fees, and at that time the US dollar had crashed. I hope the currency has recouped and Jan has recovered her money! The atmosphere at Becker’s was very inclusive. We students came from all parts of the world. Speaking in a variety of English dialects, the least common being Australian! This inclusive, almost bohemian atmosphere was put to test after the 9/11 attacks. I being a north Indian Pajput, look “Middle Eastern”, felt no such inflection from anybody at the school. And that is saying something, as in the weeks after the attacks, children were shying away from me in shopping malls. I have come away with life long friends, form amongst both the staff and the students. In the end I must say that it was a good decision on my part to take to flying choppers, and more so to have trained with Becker Helicopters” Mrityunja “Meetu” Singh, India “With the quality training provided by Becker Helicopters I managed an overall mark of 96% in the CPL(H) exam even after 15 years break from studying. The flying granted me many fond memories that I relish with a smile! The first flight, the first unaided hover, the first smooth landing, the countless amusing mistakes on the radio, my first successful navigation ex, passing my PPL, low flying, underslung load training, passing my CPL exam…the list is endless but unforgettable. I urge anybody reading this and seriously considering the training to follow that dream and make it come true. It isn’t an easy process but if it were the reward would not be so great nor satisfying” Tim Cousins, UK “I think that heli flying really is all about Attitude, and teamwork – it is quite a daunting career to embark on but when the flying is in your blood and is your passion. This passion empowers you and the winning formula to climbing” (achieving your dream) is in attitude and power to achieve balance” Anne Fine, South Africa “Mike Becker’s diverse and varied experiences in the Helicopter world make him an ideal instructor. Combined with his energetic enthusiasm for passing on his flying skills, a student at any level could only benefit from time spent at Becker Helicopters at its current beautiful location” Ken Webeck, Wee Jasper NSW - CPL (H) Now Ag Spraying. “Very clean, friendly, helpful… my English ability was not excellent but I could achieve my aim” Junji Amano, Osaka, Japan “Mountain flying is a huge plus” … “Recommending Becker Helicopters is easy. Mike and Jan are both easy to talk to and very knowledgeable about their training and also our career prospects, which is important as we all need a job after the hard work is done” Fergus Ponder, Ex mustering pilot now flying EMS in a BK117 and Bell 412 in Alaska Has over 4,000 hours - Trained in 1996 “Training in non-controlled and controlled air space a huge benefit … Jan and Mike friendly and approachable” Peter McAnulty, NZ – CPL (H) Now Ag Spraying “Wonderful experience training with Becker Helicopters … made some great friends … felt well supported by everyone … the quality of camaraderie and equipment was great” “Becker Helicopters main strengths are attitude and atmosphere, knowledge, and attention to detail.” “My training with Becker Helicopters was all I expected and more. A relaxed but professional attitude from Mike and Jan made the training experience enjoyable for students and their families. “ Brendon Cleaver, Colorado USA CPL (H) Now in Tourism Work KH4 Western Australia “Mike has a ‘can-do’ attitude and this combined with his extensive experience and instructional ability, and his commitment to his own personal growth ensures a win/win for all parties.” John Devine, Caloundra, QLD - CPL (A) and CPL (H) and a Captain on Ansett. Sadly John Devine died whilst parachuting. He was passionate about life and he will be sadly missed. “I was welcomed to the school by all and enjoyed mostly good weather, fine facility and friendly, although professional, attitude. From my limited experience, this school is one of the best I’ve seen or heard of.” Naor Ziv, Israel, Middle East - CPL (H) “Mike has the right balance for pushing those who need pushing to gain confidence, and holding those back who are overconfident … if you ever wanted to fly and can afford it, give it a go. No use looking back in 10 years and saying I wish I had done that now” David Carter, Woolooma, NSW – CPL (H) has a job with Mustering and Tourism Company, David was the second guy on the Rookie Program. “What made me train with Becker Helicopters was the professional and personalized information and follow up. Mike is a good instructor with good people and communication skills, good ground briefings and flying” Alan de Haan, Holland “When you make a new bunch of friends just like that what more could you want” Dwight Geelan, Self made Millionaire/Property Developer Fantastic, environment is extremely friendly, and conducive to learning. International Students are well catered for” Alan Bell, Scotland “I can’t put it in words the way you have helped me and my family achieve so much through your commitment, professionalism, and confidence in such a short time. “I could not ask for any better. I am really glad I made the move. I know that what I’ll learn here will set me up with a big advantage over other schools students. I really value the honest evaluation of flying skills that all instructors provide.” David Goodman, “Rookie “ program - Flying in Tasmania, on Ag work. “Jan and Mike are friendly people and they do their best to make you feel welcome. They have a wealth of experience in their instructors, and their training is very professional and of a high standard.” Tunui Wano Tourist pilot in WA after completing 12 months on Rookie program. Age 43 when he started was told he was to old by many people. Now he lives his dream every day. Good on you Tunui “Everything was covered well, Mike put a lot of time and effort into helping me when I was just a small dollar amount compared to his CPL (H) students. I recommend Becker Helicopters for the professional and courteous attitude, which was given to me. Theory notes were absolutely excellent and very effective and get you thinking about what you are doing. I have done endorsements in Melbourne, Airlie Beach and Sunshine Coast … Mike would have to be the better one of them all … I learnt to fly at (“name of school withheld”) around 5-6 years ago and was very disappointed with their attitude. I felt like I was treated like a number. Once I got my licence they didn’t want to know me, I was on my own. I chose to train at (“name of school withheld”) because they were cheaper than the rest of Australia, which was a wrong decision. You get what you pay for. Mike seems to know a lot of people in the industry. He teaches you to fly well, to survive, and makes sure you know your stuff.” Robert Slater CPL(H) Heliview Pty Ltd. Did some retraining (10 hours or so) with us. Gained his licence back after training at Becker Helicopters. Owns and operates KH4 in Cairns. “The training is in-depth and practical, the instructors know their stuff, and their personal service is second to none.” Lee Johnson, Maroochydore, Queensland “Becker Helicopters are an innovative and professional organisation, they are always looking for ways to improve. This approach to teaching offers students the right balance of theory and practice, which is sure to see them evolve in the next millennium. Mikes approach to the industry is passionate, and I found his passion to be contagious. If you are considering the plunge don’t procrastinate, just do it! I have no hesitation at all in recommending Becker Helicopters to those who want to fly.” Patrick Parker, CPL(H) Western Australia, Worked as an Ag loader for a Helicopter spraying company. “The operation at the moment is of high quality with good direction for the future.” “A wealth of knowledge and experience is to be sponged up at Becker Helicopters, others coming here soak up as much as you can, I did, and I believe I have been well prepared by Mike and staff for the future.” Ian Gotham, CPL (H) Flying for Stirling Buntine, Jabiru NT in R44’s on tourism “Becker Helicopter Services is Mike and Jan’s’ life… the business is run to the highest of standards, with that standard not being out of the students reach. The student is considered one of the team and made to feel important. Mikes’ experience is extremely beneficial and shown by the way he teaches, and the facilities are A1. The company ski-boat, volleyball, and BBQs’ are just some of the activities carried out to keep you enthusiastic. Mikes’ book is a tremendous learning tool and his DVDs are thorough. Mike and Jan have a great business due to hard work and effort. I will ensure that if you put in the effort they do, results are not far away or out of your reach. Mike and Jan and the team are extremely friendly and honest. The flying is fantastic and I found the two helicopters extremely rewarding. Congratulations to the Becker’s on a successful business.” Ricky Ford, CPL (H) Ricky now owns his own Helicopter in NT, Near Darwin, he turned 18 the day he sat his CPL Theory exam. Congratulations on your engagement Ricky “My period of training was the best time of my life and I feel a real sense of achievement from learning to fly helicopters.” Alan Ford, Alan is back working and flies on weekends saving his money to do the extra Pilot in Command. “The look of the school is fresh and professional. The multi instructors give you a lot of extra experience and help you to look at the training in different ways. Also the sling-load course is an experience not to miss. The experience of the instructors is something that will help you further your career. The accommodation in the pilot-house is a great place to get your English skills up.” Andre Scholte, Netherlands Many of our past students are happy for you to contact them by telephone
or email. Please call Becker Helicopters and we will pass on their phone
numbers or email addresses. You can also select ‘Our
Students’ button on our website to visit some of our students
own websites and start a dialogue with them. Helicopters we use for Training Bell 47 – Oscar – G2A, NVFR, IR
Modified It then came back to Australia, where it was in a helicopter museum for about ten years. Later it was purchased by a private pilot who flew it from his property in the Snowy Mountains to his property on the Coast of Queensland. We then purchased this Bell 47 for use in our flying school. Its' call sign/registration is “VH-ORC” (Oscar Romeo Charlie), affectionately named Oscar. Oscar is yellow. Why yellow? Because it is Mike’s eldest daughters favourite colour and is easily identifiable in the air. Hughes 269A TH-55 (commonly called as a Hughes
300) Other things to remember Bell 206 Jet Ranger Bell 206 Long Ranger AS350 Squirrel A Helicopter’s Life |