Complete guide

How to become a helicopter pilot

The complete civilian path to an EASA helicopter licence — which licence to choose, what it costs, how long it takes, and the exact steps from your first discovery flight to the skill test. Based on how we actually train pilots at LionHeli in Hradec Králové, Czechia.

Choose your licence

Three EASA licences cover almost every civilian ambition. Most pilots start with LAPL(H) or PPL(H); professionals continue to CPL(H).

LAPL(H) — Light Aircraft Pilot

from €16,087

The simplest entry into helicopter flying. 40 flight hours, 9 theory subjects, ideal for recreational flying in Europe.

Details

PPL(H) — Private Pilot

from €17,730

The classic first licence. 45 flight hours, fly family and friends, the foundation for every professional path.

Details

CPL(H) — Commercial Pilot

from €12,276 top-up

The professional licence that lets you fly for pay — transport, instruction, external load work or HEMS.

Details

Not sure which one fits? Read our LAPL(H) vs PPL(H) comparison.

Six steps to the cockpit

1. Discovery flight

Book a discovery flight on the Cabri G2. You take the controls with an instructor and find out whether helicopter flying is for you — the hour counts toward your training.

2. Medical certificate

Get an EASA Class 2 medical (Class 1 for commercial ambitions). Glasses and most common conditions are fine — do this early to avoid delays.

3. Theory course

Nine subjects for PPL(H): meteorology, navigation, air law, principles of flight and more. Individual or online study at your own pace, exam at the CAA.

4. Flight training

Minimum 45 flight hours on the Guimbal Cabri G2 — dual instruction, solo flights, navigation and emergency procedures. We bill per actual flight minute.

5. Skill test

A practical exam with a CAA examiner. Our students train on the same type they test on, so the Cabri G2 cockpit is second nature by then.

6. Licence and beyond

Receive your EASA licence, valid across member states. Continue with a night rating, type ratings, or hour building toward a professional career.

Want the beginner-focused version? See First steps of a helicopter pilot.

Realistic timeline and cost

How long it takes

• PPL(H): 4–6 months flying regularly, 9–18 months at weekends
• LAPL(H): typically 3–5 months (40 h minimum)
• CPL(H) modular add-on: 6–12 months incl. hour building
• FI(H) instructor course: after 250 h total time

What it costs

• LAPL(H): from €16,087
• PPL(H): from €17,730 (7% off flight hours)
• Billed per actual flight minute, pay as you go
• Full cost breakdown incl. hidden items

Flying in from abroad? Read the practical guide to training in Czechia — travel, accommodation, medical and budget. Comparing schools across the continent? See helicopter pilot training in Europe.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to become a helicopter pilot?

The legal minimum for a PPL(H) is 45 flight hours plus 9 theory subjects. Motivated students who fly regularly finish in about 4–6 months; flying only at weekends, expect 9–18 months. Adding a CPL(H) for professional flying typically takes another 6–12 months including hour building.

How much does it cost to become a helicopter pilot?

At LionHeli, PPL(H) training starts from €17,730 and LAPL(H) from €16,087, with 7% off flight hours currently. We bill only actual flight minutes — not block time — so you keep precise control over the budget. See our full cost breakdown for all items including medical and CAA fees.

What are the requirements to start helicopter pilot training?

You must be at least 16 for your first solo flight and 17 for the PPL(H) licence to be issued. You need an EASA Class 2 medical certificate (Class 1 for commercial training) and enough English for radio communication. No prior flying experience is required.

Can I train for an EASA licence if I am not Czech?

Yes. We teach in English, issue an EASA licence valid across all member states, and regularly train students from Germany, Poland, France and elsewhere. Hradec Králové airport is easy to reach and we help with accommodation and scheduling.

What is the difference between LAPL(H) and PPL(H)?

LAPL(H) is the lighter recreational licence: 40 flight hours, lower cost, limited to lighter helicopters and EASA states. PPL(H) requires 45 hours and allows you to fly larger types and internationally. Both are valid first steps — see our LAPL vs PPL comparison for details.

Can I become a professional helicopter pilot through modular training?

Yes. The modular path runs PPL(H) → hour building → CPL(H) → FI(H) or type ratings. It lets you spread the cost over time and keep working while training. Many of our graduates now fly commercially, instruct, or work toward HEMS operations.

Start with a discovery flight

The fastest way to know whether helicopter flying is for you. One hour on the Cabri G2 with an instructor — and it counts toward your training.

Contact the school