Private pilot licence PPL(H)
The PPL(H) – Private Pilot Licence (Helicopter) – is the first step toward operating a helicopter independently as Pilot in Command. Air-Evolution Ltd. provides comprehensive and individually tailored training delivered by experienced flight instructors, with its operational base located at Lodrino Airport in Ticino, Switzerland.
The licence is issued in accordance with EASA regulations and recognised by the Swiss Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA). It allows you to act as Pilot in Command (PIC) on private VFR flights throughout Europe. With a PPL(H), you may carry passengers on non-commercial flights for leisure or personal transportation.
The path to obtaining the PPL(H) licence
Entry Requirements
To begin the course, you must be at least 17 years old. The minimum age for licence issuance is 18. There is no maximum age limit. A good knowledge of Italian or English is required for radio communications and for studying the training material.
Medical certification
Before starting the training, you must obtain at least a Class 2 medical certificate issued by an authorised aviation medical examiner (AME). The medical examination confirms your fitness to fly in accordance with EASA standards. We strongly recommend completing this requirement prior to enrolment.
Theoretical training
The theoretical programme covers the nine subjects required by EASA regulations: air law, human performance, meteorology, navigation, radio communications, principles of flight, operational procedures, flight performance and planning, and general helicopter knowledge. Lessons may be attended in person or completed through structured self-study.
45 ore di volo
The practical training requires a minimum of 45 flight hours, including at least 25 hours of dual instruction with a certified flight instructor and 10 hours of supervised solo flight time. During the course, you will learn fundamental flight manoeuvres, emergency procedures, navigation techniques, and take-offs and landings under different operational conditions. The training programme is flexible and can be adapted to your schedule.
Navigazione cross-country
An essential part of the training is the cross-country navigation exercise. This consists of a flight of at least 100 nautical miles, including landings at two different aerodromes along the route. The exercise consolidates your flight planning skills and strengthens your navigation competence in real operational environments.
Esame finale
At the end of the training programme, you must complete the Skill Test, a practical examination conducted by an authorised flight examiner. The test must be taken within six months of completing the training. Once successfully passed, your PPL(H) licence will be issued.
