Thank you from all the team!
2024 has been another busy year for the Melbourne Heli team at Essendon Airfields, and we’re proud of all the flying that we’ve facilitated throughout the year. With staff departures (Glenn), arrivals (Rick) and a new aircraft added to the fleet (VH-PDK), we flew more charter and training flights than we have in any previous year, and are poised for a strong 2025 in all respects.
While we thank all of our charter passengers for letting us show off the best of Melbourne and Victoria, this year we wish to say a special thank you to all of our flight training students past and present. Whether you’ve just started with Melbourne Heli, about to finishing a license or advanced rating, or post-license and a regular aircraft private hirer, we hope you’ve enjoyed this year flying with us, and we look forward to being alongside you for whatever your next aviation step is.
Thank you from all of the staff here at Melbourne Heli!
Student News
A big congratulations to Luke Cusack and Nathan Hooper who passed their PPL flight tests. It’s a momentous occasion for any pilot to obtain their private license, and the whole team at Melbourne Heli wish Luke and Nathan the best of luck as they progress on their respective aviation journeys.
Joel Hards spent his Christmas Eve flying solo for the first time down at Moorabbin. Every pilot remembers their first time being alone in the sky, and we’re all thrilled that Joel could do this in style. Well done Joel and good luck with your next steps.
Daily and Pre-Flight Checks
In mid-December, one of our instructors found a missing magneto bolt while completing the daily inspection of VH-PDV. During the search, they found another, larger bolt in the sump tray underneath the engine. Whilst they couldn’t find a corresponding hole missing a fastener, the design and size suggests an engine securing bolt of some description.
This is a timely reminder that our daily and pre-flight checks are designed for a very good reason: ensuring the airworthiness and safety of the aircraft you intend to operate. The reality is that mechanical items will come loose, fail, break and wear down over time, and pilots are the first line of defence against things going wrong.
Please ensure that you take the time to complete your checks properly; if you’re unsure, grab an instructor or one of the line pilots and ask them to walk around with you – everyone will be more than happy to take the time to ensure you have a safe flight. If you’re comfortable with your checks, and can proceed through them by memory, perhaps now is a good time to refresh yourself on the checklist and any relevant manufacturer advice on what to be aware of.
An Introduction to CASA Digital Licenses
Some of you may be aware that CASA has introduced digital licenses for pilots, offering a modern and convenient way to manage credentials. Accessible via the myCASA portal, these digital licenses include flight crew licenses, medical certificates, and maintenance engineer licenses, making it easier to stay compliant without relying on physical documents.
This initiative simplifies documentation management, allowing you to securely access your credentials anytime via a mobile device or computer. Digital licenses feature QR codes for instant verification and are valid across Australia, ensuring they’re both practical and secure.
To get started, log in to the myCASA portal and link your credentials.
