Commercial Helicopter Pilot Licence Calgary Alberta Canada

The Commercial Helicopter Pilot Licence or CHPL course is for individuals looking to fly helicopters as a career. You will be able to fly helicopters for a company and receive compensation for your work. This course requires no previous knowledge or experience in fixed or rotary wing aircraft. However, applicants with their fixed-wing Commercial or ATPL license and military equivalences can receive credits towards their Commercial Helicopter License.

L R HELICOPTERS CHPL course will equip you with the experience and ability to enter the commercial world of the helicopter pilot. You will be “industry ready”, significantly reducing the amount of additional training required by any prospective employer.

Consider carefully your school, your investment, and your opportunities. Do you have what it takes to be a commercial pilot? More importantly, do you have what it takes to be a true professional helicopter pilot?

Join our CHPL course now for your chance to kick start your future not just your dreams!

For those students who complete the CHPL, our graduate program may provide the opportunity for employment after the flight school.

Age Requirement – Eighteen years of age.

Medical Fitness – Valid Category 1 Medical Certificate.

Prerequisites – None (no previous flight experience)

For International Students – To be admitted, you must have an English language proficiency of at least Level 6. You can prove this by passing the IELTS exam. Additionally, you’ll need to apply for a Student Visa.

Minimum of 80 hours commercial pilot helicopter ground school instruction, on the following subjects:

  • Canadian Aviation Regulations
  • Aerodynamics and Theory of Flight
  • Meteorology
  • Airframes, Engines and Systems
  • Flight Instruments
  • Radio and Electronic Theory
  • Navigation
  • Flight Operations
  • Licensing Requirements
  • Human factors including pilot decision-making;

Obtained a minimum of 60% in each of the following four mandatory subject areas as well as in the overall written examination Commercial Pilot Licence – Helicopter (CPHEL):

  • Air Law – regulations, rules and orders, air traffic services, practices and procedures, and licensing requirements relevant to the licence
  • Navigation – navigation, radio aids and electronic theory
  • Meteorology
  • Aeronautics – General Knowledge – airframes, engines and systems and theory of flight
  • Instruments and flight operations.

A minimum of 100 hours pilot flight time in helicopters, of which a minimum of 35 hours pilot-in-command flight time, including 10 hours cross-country pilot-in-command flight time; and 55 hours dual instruction flight time under the direction and supervision of the holder of a flight Instructor Rating-Helicopter, including:

  • 5 hours cross-country flight time
  • 10 hours of dual instrument flight time, using suitable radio navigational facilities to complete elementary navigation procedures and two-way radio to comply with Air Traffic Control procedures and clearances, including a minimum of 5 hours in helicopters. A maximum of 5 hours of the 10 hours may be conducted on an approved helicopter simulator or flight training device.
  • 35 hours solo flight time emphasizing the improvement of general flying ability and skill, including a cross-country flight to a point a minimum of 2 hours flight time at normal cruising speed from the point of departure including a minimum of 3 landings at points other than the point of departure.

Within the 12 months preceding the date of application for the licence, the applicant must successfully complete a flight test to the standard outlined in the Flight Test Standard Private and Commercial Pilot Licences – Helicopters (TP3077E). Note: The licence is issued restricted to daylight flying.

Credential Assessment

At L R Helicopters, the credential assessment for our Commercial Helicopter Pilot License (CHPL) course is executed with meticulous adherence to established conventions and practices, ensuring our processes are transparent, reliable, and recognized. Our methods are based on industry best practices and are relevant to the standards required by Transport Canada.

1. Validation of Previous Education and Experience: We begin by validating the authenticity of the academic and flight training records submitted by prospective students. This involves verifying documents directly with issuing institutions and checking against databases for accredited aviation training organizations. This step ensures that all prerequisites for course enrollment are met according to Canadian standards.

2. Equivalence Assessment: For applicants with credentials from non-Canadian institutions, we conduct an equivalence assessment to determine how these credentials compare with Canadian standards. This analysis includes the curriculum, training hours, and assessment methods of the foreign institution to ensure they meet or exceed the standards required by Transport Canada.

3. Competency-Based Evaluation: Our credential assessment includes a competency-based evaluation where prior learning, both formal and informal, is considered. This evaluation assesses the practical skills and theoretical knowledge of the applicant to ensure alignment with the competencies expected of a commercial helicopter pilot in Canada. This may include practical tests, interviews, or simulation assessments.

4. Continuous Alignment with Industry Standards: We regularly update our assessment criteria to reflect changes in the aviation industry and advances in educational assessment methodologies. This ensures that our credential assessment remains relevant and adheres to the high standards expected in the aviation sector.

5. Documentation and Transparency: We maintain detailed documentation throughout the assessment process to support our decisions and provide feedback to applicants. Our processes are designed to be clear and communicable, ensuring all applicants understand the criteria and outcomes of their credential assessments.

Educational and Examination Standards: Our ground school requires at least 80 hours of instruction, covering key topics like Canadian Aviation Regulations, Aerodynamics, Meteorology, and Navigation, fully aligned with Transport Canada guidelines. Candidates must pass several examinations, including the Aviation-Language Proficiency Test, Restricted Operator Certificate, Pre-Solo Test of Air Regulations, and the Commercial Pilot Written Exam, along with a comprehensive Flight Test. Each of these steps is designed to ensure proficiency and safety in helicopter operations.

Experience Requirements: Candidates are required to amass 100 hours of helicopter flight time, incorporating pilot-in-command experience and dual instruction, to ensure ample practical experience before entering the field.

By adopting these thorough and structured assessment processes, L R Helicopters ensures that all credentials are assessed fairly and accurately, adhering to both national standards. This comprehensive approach guarantees that our pilots are fully prepared for the responsibilities and challenges of their roles, with credentials recognized by Transport Canada.

Examination

  • Aviation-Language Proficiency Test (ALPT): All pilots, regardless of native language, must pass this test in English, set in an aviation context, before their first solo flight. This ensures clear communication within international and domestic airspace.
  • Restricted Operator Certificate with Aeronautical Qualification (ROC-A): Candidates must demonstrate capability in operating radiotelephone equipment and possess knowledge of international and specific regulations concerning the safety of life.
  • Pre-Solo Test of Air Regulations (PSTAR): A required Transport Canada written examination on Aviation Regulations and Air Traffic Control Procedures, with a pass mark of 90%, corrected to 100%. This exam ensures a deep understanding of aviation law and procedures.
  • Commercial Pilot Written: Pilots must pass a multiple-choice examination that covers four mandatory subject areas with an overall and individual minimum pass mark of 60%.
  • Flight Test: All of the flight test items required by the flight test report and described in this guide must be successfully completed and the minimum pass mark for the Commercial Pilot Licence of 104 (70%) must be achieved.

Course Outline

Ground School Flight Training Instruction
Instructions Dual Solo
Air Law and Procedures 20 Familiarization 0.5
Airframe, Engine and Systems 10 Preparation for flight 0.5
Theory of Flight 20 Effects of Controls 0.5
Meteorology 20 Airspeed and Power changes straight and level flight 1.0
Instruments 5 Climbs and Descents 1.0
Navigation General 10 Turns 1.0
Navigation Radio Aids 10 Autorotations 1 (upper air) 1.0
Flight Operations 20 Hovering 2.0
Human Factors 10 Take Off / Landings 2.0 2.0
Reviews 10 Hovering Exercises 2.0 3.0
Total 135 Engine Failure 1.0
Transitions 2.0 1.0
Autorotations 2 (Landings) 5.0
Emergencies 3.0
The Circuit 3.0 5.0
Sideways and Rearwards Flight 1.0 1.0
Steep Turns 1.0 1.0
Autorotations 3 (Range Variations) 3.0
Practice Forced Approaches 2.0
Pilot Navigation 5.0 10.0
Rapid Deceleration 1.0
Low Level Operations 1.0
Sloping Ground 1.0 1.0
Advanced Take-Offs and Landings 3.0 1.0
Confined Areas 5.0 8.0
Vortex Ring 1.0
Practical Loading and Maximum Weight Operations 1.0
Sling Load Operations 3.0
Type Conversion
Instrument Flying 5.0
Reviews  7.0  2.0
(minimum requirement 100 Hours) Total Hours 65.0 35.0

Academic Policies

Attendance Policy

You are expected to attend all training events regularly and on time at L R Helicopters Inc. This commitment is essential for completing your training within the designated program duration. You must inform us immediately of any absences or tardiness, according to your contractual obligations. Note that absences will be recorded from the first class meeting.

Interruption of Training

If you’re absent for more than five consecutive days or miss a scheduled examination, you must meet with the CFI or their designee. Not attending classes does not equate to an official withdrawal. Acceptable reasons for study interruptions are limited to:

  • Medical Reasons: You must present a physician’s note detailing the illness and the period of absence required.
  • Compassionate Reasons: You need to submit a letter describing the emergency, defined as an unforeseen situation beyond your control.
Reinstatement of Training

To resume classes after an interruption, students must secure permission by scheduling a formal interview with the CFI or designee, ideally as soon as the return date is known. Re-admission requires students to be in good financial and academic standing. Failure to properly notify of an absence may result in probationary re-admission, with exceptions possible for valid reasons for the absence.

Re-admission and Consequences of Non-Compliance

To be considered for re-admission after an interruption, a written application must be submitted to the CFI or designee. Failing to adhere to the attendance policy may lead to either the termination of your training program or an increase in the program price to reflect current rates, especially if your training commenced at a discount. It is also your responsibility to notify any third-party funders about your absence.

Should you fail to comply with these policies and experience extended inactivity, we may adjust the cost of your program or cease your training. Such non-compliance could also affect your ability to resume the program where you left off and alter your projected completion dates, all in line with our Refund Policy.

As a student, you are responsible for regularly attending training events and making your best effort to complete training within the time frame of the program. If you are unable to meet the participation requirements and you wish to resume training after an extended period of inactivity, L R HELICOPTERS INC may increase the price of your program to the current price.

If you are unable to meet the requirements of this attendance policy, L R HELICOPTERS INC may either discontinue your training program or impose a price increase if your program was started at a cost below advertised prices.

Student Complaints and Resolution Process

At L R Helicopters Inc., we are dedicated to fostering a supportive, fair, and safe learning environment. Part of this commitment is ensuring a transparent and accessible process for the resolution of student complaints, providing all students with a means to voice concerns and have them addressed promptly and fairly.

Our complaint resolution process includes:
  • Initial Submission: We encourage students to report complaints through our designated channels to ensure they are properly documented and handled.
  • Investigation: Each complaint undergoes a comprehensive investigation to examine all relevant facts and perspectives.
  • Resolution: We take appropriate steps to address and resolve the issue, aiming for a fair outcome for all parties involved.
  • Follow-Up: After a resolution is implemented, we conduct follow-ups to ensure satisfaction with the outcome and determine if further actions are necessary.
Reporting Forms:
Student Preparedness

You must arrive well-prepared for each lesson. This means that you will arrive with all reading assignments complete, and all ground school, and home study work complete.

Students must also show up appropriately dressed for the weather. No cut-off shorts, sandals/flip flops, or cut-off t-shirts. You must also bring a book bag with extra clothing in the helicopter appropriate for the season, in case of an emergency or unplanned landing.

Lesson No-Show / Late Cancellation 

L R HELICOPTERS INC will impose a fee for tardiness, lack of preparation, and cancellations within 24 hours.

If you are scheduled for a simulator lesson or flight training event, and weather or maintenance becomes a factor, you are still expected to arrive on-time for training. Your instructor will decide the appropriate course of action which may include substituting the planned lesson with another suitable to the conditions.

L R HELICOPTERS INC understands that extenuating circumstances do occur and will allow exceptions to this policy at its sole discretion. Any time your account incurs a cancellation fee, payment must be received before any further training will be scheduled.

Scheduled Flight no-show Fee(s)

  • Flight – $624.00 per hour
  • SIM – $150.00 per hour
Course Drops/Withdrawals

L R Helicopters Inc. has established a clear policy for course drops and withdrawals, adhering to the guidelines provided by the regulatory bodies governing the province. This policy is crafted to safeguard the interests of our students while upholding the standards of our training programs.

To initiate a withdrawal from a training program, students must either consult with the Admissions Representative or the Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), completing a Student Activity Form in the process. Alternatively, a written withdrawal notice, detailing the reason and the date of withdrawal, must be submitted. This can be done either in person or via registered mail directed to the CFI. A copy of the withdrawal notice will be retained in the student’s administrative file for documentation and compliance.

If a student discontinues attendance without providing a written withdrawal notice, L R Helicopters Inc. will record the student as absent. Consistent with the requirements of Student Loans and funding agencies, such absence will be reported as “withdrawn”.

Health Insurance Policy for International Students
Eligibility for Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)

International students enrolled in programs lasting more than twelve months can register for the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). Those with Study Permits valid for 3 to 12 months might qualify for AHCIP if they submit an application along with a letter stating their intent to reside in Alberta for at least one year. For comprehensive details and to check application eligibility, please visit Health care coverage for students and foreign or AHCIP Registration or AHCIP for Temporary Residents.

Requirements for Students in Shorter Programs

Students enrolled in programs shorter than twelve months, who may not qualify for AHCIP, must secure health insurance through a private provider. While L R Helicopters Inc. does not endorse any specific insurance plan or agent, we are committed to assisting students in exploring suitable private health insurance options that meet their individual needs.

Assistance and Resources

L R Helicopters Inc. provides resources and guidance to help students navigate the process of obtaining the necessary health insurance coverage. Our aim is to ensure all students have adequate health insurance coverage throughout their enrollment, in compliance with Canadian regulations and to safeguard their health and well-being during their studies.

Compliance

It is mandatory for all international students to have valid health insurance coverage for the duration of their program. Students must provide proof of insurance to L R Helicopters Inc. upon enrollment and maintain coverage throughout their stay. Failure to comply with this policy may result in administrative actions, up to and including suspension from the program until proof of adequate insurance is provided.

Support

For assistance with insurance-related inquiries or help in finding a suitable health insurance plan, students are encouraged to contact the administrative office at L R Helicopters Inc. Our staff is available to provide support and direct students to the appropriate resources for their insurance needs.

Height and Weight Limits

A flight will evaluate prospective students outside the height range of 5’2″ to 6’3″ or weighing over 220 lbs for their ability to comfortably and safely operate the aircraft due to operational constraints.

Apply Now!

Thank you for considering L R Helicopters Inc. for your pilot training. Complete the application below and our team will get back to you within 2 business days.

Fee Notice: A $1,000 deposit is required with your application, half of which ($500) is non-refundable.

CHPL Course Dates – Book Your Spot!

  • March 18, 2024
  • April 22, 2024
  • May 21, 2024
  • July 22, 2024
  • August 19, 2024
  • October 14, 2024

Slots are limited. Enroll early to secure your place.

We look forward to supporting your journey to becoming a professional pilot!