Helicopter Career Track Program
Explore the dynamic world of rotorcraft with Arapahoe Flight Club’s Helicopter Career Track Program. This specialized program is designed to guide you through the comprehensive training needed to become a proficient helicopter pilot, from obtaining your Private Pilot Certificate to advancing to a Commercial Pilot rating and beyond.
During our Helicopter Career Track Program you’ll receive expert instruction from seasoned professionals and benefit from our modern, well-maintained Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter.
Our tailored curriculum equips you with the skills and certifications necessary for a rewarding career in various sectors, including emergency medical services, law enforcement, and aerial photography. Embark on your journey to becoming a helicopter pilot and experience the thrill of navigating the skies from a unique perspective, all while gaining valuable experience in demanding conditions.
Robinson R44
At Arapahoe Flight Club, we proudly operate the Robinson R44 Raven II as our primary training helicopter, offering students a top-tier experience in rotorcraft education. Renowned for its reliability, performance, and advanced features, the R44 Raven II is an exceptional choice for developing essential flying skills.
The Robinson R44 Raven II is equipped with a powerful 250 horsepower engine, modern avionics, and a spacious cabin, making it ideal for both training and practical application. Its design provides a stable platform for learning and mastering a wide range of helicopter maneuvers, from basic flight operations to advanced techniques.
WORKING TOGETHER
Why Arapahoe Flight Club?
01
High Altitude Training
Training in a high-altitude environment equips you with the skills and experience needed to succeed as a professional helicopter pilot.
02
Mountainous Terrain
The mountainous terrain just a short flight from KCOS provides a dynamic environment to practice and refine your flying skills.
03
Experienced Instructors
Our instructors bring extensive experience flying turbine and R44 helicopters, offering real-world insights and guidance throughout your training.
04
Busy Airspace
The busy and diverse airspace around Colorado Springs offers students a unique opportunity to become confident operating in high-traffic environments while gaining valuable experience communicating with ATC from day one.
Our training method
Each rating in our R44 training program is designed to give you the experience and proficiency you need to succeed—not just meet FAA minimums. You'll be more confident, better prepared, and fully ready for each checkride in the R44.
We understand that every student learns differently, which is why each Career Course is customized to fit your individual needs. This personalized approach helps maximize both your efficiency and success throughout the program.
Best of all, our R44 training is priced lower than many competitors, yet delivers significantly more value. With checkride fees, FAA written exams, and training materials included—a package worth up to $7,000—you’ll receive exceptional instruction with no hidden costs.
Course Breakdown
| Certificate/Rating | Flight Hours | Ground Instruction | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Pilot | 60 Hours | 40 Hours | $42,000 |
| Instrument Rating* | 40 Hours | 20 Hours | $27,700 |
| Commercial Rating** | 60 Hours | 20 Hours | $38,500 |
| CFI | 25 Hours | 40 Hours | $19,200 |
| CFII | 15 Hours | 20 Hours | $11,700 |
| TOTALS | 200 Hours | 140 Hours | $139,100 |
*Must have 60 hours total time if stating the full career track program while already having a PPL
**Must have 100 hours total time to start Commercial Training - Career Path only
The Career Track also includes the following:
- All examiner fees for every checkride
- Online test prep for all courses
- iPad Mini with a one-year ForeFlight subscription
- Lightspeed Zulu 3 ANR headset
- Kneeboard
- Student Pilot Kit for helicopters
- Robinson R44 Raven II POH
- Jeppesen Instrument/Commercial Manual
- Foggles
- Instrument Flying Handbook
- Instrument Procedures Handbook
- Fundamentals of Instruction
- Aviation Instructor’s Handbook
Arapahoe Flight Club's partnership with Stratus Financial is designed to provide enhanced financial support and opportunities for our students. Click the QR code!
We also have partnerships with ENT and Vector Bank, two of Colorado Springs local lenders to provide more financing options. Reach out to use to get more specific information!
Salary of Future employment opportunities
Interested in more information on our Helicopter Career Track Program?
Send us an email, give us a call or leave your information and we'll get right back to you!