Insights from a Professional Helicopter Pilot

Dive into expert tips and aviation knowledge shared by a seasoned helicopter test pilot dedicated to elevating your flight knowledge and skills.

  • Maintenance by pilots – can the training be improved?

    Maintenance by pilots – can the training be improved?

    In an ideal world, a fully qualified engineer would handle every helicopter maintenance task, including daily inspections per the maintenance program. However, this isn’t realistic in many operations, especially those that are widely dispersed. Therefore, some pilots receive training and approval to perform simple tasks, optimising the use of manpower and expertise in maintenance and…


  • Flight simulation revolution – A new method for matching training need to simulator capability

    Flight simulation revolution – A new method for matching training need to simulator capability

    EASA has recently published a new Certification Specification for Flight Simulation Training Devices (CS-FSTD). This completely changes how FSTDs will be certified and, along with new aircrew and operations rules, will influence how training organisations and operators choose the right FSTD for their training needs. In this article we take a look at the new…


  • Helicopter Single Engine IFR – New horizons

    Helicopter Single Engine IFR – New horizons

    Bell Helicopters recently announced the sale of the first single engine IFR-configured Bell 407 GXi in the UK. This represents a significant step forward for UK helicopter IFR operations as there is currently only one other, much older, single-engine IFR certified helicopter in the entire UK civilian fleet. The availability of capable, single-engine IFR machines…