1. What are the requirements for entering a pilot education program?
You must possess a Class 1 Medical Approval, issued by the norwegian medical board for pilots. (Legenemda for flygere). The Licensing authority also requires a statement warranting a clean criminal record issued by the local police or legal authorities.
2. What is the average time spent obtaining a Private pilot license?
According to the JAR FCL 2, which are the international requirements, you need a minimum of 45 hours of flying experience. This can be reduced if you have documentation of previous flying experience. In addition to this you need to take xx hours of theorylessons according to the JAR standard.
3. I want to become a commercial pilot, how is the education program?
You have to enroll as a student at a licensed helicopter school. Currently there are only three schools in Norway, one of them is Pegasus helicopter school. Once you have finished the theoretical part of the education, and conducted the practical flying lessons, you will undergo a practical exam with an examiner from Civil aviation. After passing this exam you will obtain your license. The education takes approx. 12 months on a full time basis.
4. Will I need continuing education?
The authorities require that you, as a commercial pilot undergo a periodical flying practice every sixth month to maintain your license and rights. This requirement does not apply for a private pilot license.
5. Does the school offer accommodation?
The school has it's own boardinghouse located right next to the school. It contains 12 flats, a common room, joint kitchen and a study room. Most of our students takes advantage of this offer, which is an affordable alternative. By staying here you will also have the advantage of living in an inspiring environment with other students sharing your interests for helicopter flying.
6. Can I start flying as soon as I get my license?
With a private pilot license, yes. Theoretically also as a commercial pilot, but since such a large amount of the worktasks in the Norwegian domestic market is cargo flying, it is common to work as a loadmaster on the ground while flying easier tasks.
7. Which are the most common jobs for an helicopter pilot?
Cargo flying has already been mentioned, and this is probably the most common job. As a fresh pilot the most common job is to work as a loadmaster together with an experienced cargo pilot for a while before you can become a pilot in command. Besides cargo flying you can find the most common work tasks underneath.
Personal transport – taxi, sightseeing, events, etc.
Trafic surveillance
Film- and photo flying
Liming of lakes
Fertilizing in agriculture and forestry
Inspection and construction of powerlines and powerplants.
Air-ambulance
Offshore
These are indeed the most common tasks for a pilot, but remember that the helicopter is a tool with possibilities. Only your imagination sets the limit, the possibilities are numerous, and the helicopter is used in an increasing number of contexts.
8. How are the work opportunities for pilots?
The opportunities are constantly changing. For the past few years the offshore industry has had great recruiting needs. This also applies for domestic companies, and for the past three years the job opportunities for domestic pilots has been good. Most of our previous students are working as full time pilots.
9. What is a normal salary for a pilot?
The salary level is closely tied to your level of experience. The rule of thumb is that few hours of flying experience will give you a low salary, and increase in line with your level of experience. This means that you must expect a relatively moderate salary in the beginning. The highest salaries can only be obtained once you have instrument ratings, two-engine experience and NVIS competence. These jobs can be found within offshore, ambulance, police and sea pilot transfer.
