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
There is no minimum or maximum age limit for training, however the minimum age for licence issue is 17 years. A good command of Italian or English is required for radio communications and for studying the course material.
Medical certification
Before the first flight, a Class 2 Medical Certificate or directly Class 1 must be obtained. The examination is carried out by an authorised Aeromedical Examiner (AME) who assesses physical fitness for flight. We recommend completing this step before enrolling on the course.
Theoretical training
The theoretical programme covers the 9 subjects required under EASA regulations: air law, human performance, meteorology, navigation, radio communications, principles of flight, operational procedures, aircraft performance and flight planning, and helicopter general knowledge. Classes may be followed via distance learning on an online platform or in person with individual self-study.
Practical training
The practical training requires a minimum of 45 flight hours, of which at least 25 hours with an instructor and 10 hours as solo pilot. During the lessons you will learn the fundamental manoeuvres, emergency procedures, navigation, and landing in various conditions. The programme is flexible and adapts to your commitments.
Cross-country navigation
A fundamental part of the training is the navigation exercise: a flight of at least 100 nautical miles with landings at 2 different aerodromes along the route. This exercise, to be carried out as solo pilot, allows you to consolidate flight planning skills and terrain orientation.
Skill test
Upon completion of the training course you will be required to pass the skill test, a practical examination before an authorised Flight Examiner. The test must be completed within 6 months of the end of the instruction period and, once passed, you will be issued your PPL(H) licence.
