What is the process for obtaining a helicopter rating?

To obtain a helicopter rating in Colorado, an individual must meet certain requirements established by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). To begin, the applicant must be at least 16 years of age and possess a valid student pilot certificate. An FAA-approved Flight Instructor must conduct ground and flight instruction to the applicant. The applicant must also pass an FAA knowledge test and obtain a minimum of 40 hours of flight time, including 20 hours of flight instruction and 10 hours of solo flight. In addition, the applicant must pass a practical test on maneuvers, operating procedures, and emergency operations. The FAA Practical Test Standards for helicopters have additional requirements that include at least 3 hours of night flight instruction and 3 hours of cross country flight training. Once the practical test is completed, the applicant can receive a Private Pilot certificate with a helicopter rating. Finally, if the pilot wishes to fly during the night or for hire, they must pursue an additional rating. For the Night rating, the pilot must have a minimum of 3 hours of night flight instruction with their instructor, as well as 10 takeoffs and landings to a hover and 10 takeoffs and landings to a hover at night. To obtain a Commercial Pilot certificate with a helicopter rating, the pilot must pass an additional practical test with an FAA-designated examiner.

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