Private Helicopter Theory
For a Private Pilot Licence you need to complete one theory exam which covers Aerodynamics, Meteorology, Air Law, Aircraft General Knowledge, Human Factors, Performance and Planning, and Navigation.
You can either self-study, or come and study with us on a full-time 2 week course.
These are held three times a year – next course date below.
Aerodynamics
Aerodynamics looks at the relationship between the helicopter and its changing environment and how pilot control inputs affect that relationship.
Air Law
Air Law details the rights and responsibilities of all those involved in the aviation industry. We as pilots focus on those laws pertaining to us; our obligations as pilot in command, flight and duty times, and how we are allowed to operate in Australian airspace.
Meteorology
Aviation relies heavily on weather, therefore, understanding how it affects us in flight is of great importance. Meteorology looks at the formation of weather, varying atmospheric conditions, international weather standards, and forecast interpretation as it relates to flight planning and operations.
Aircraft General Knowledge
AGK focusses on basic helicopter systems; the engine and drive system, instrumentation and warnings, electrical, fuel and oil, cooling, hydraulics and other moving parts. Understanding your helicopter’s working systems is essential for safe operation.
Human Factors
Human Factors studies the human element in aviation; it describes how flying at varying altitudes affects us physically and mentally and draws attention to the importance of monitoring your health and personal limitations.
Navigation
Manual navigation allows pilots to fly a course effectively whilst becoming attuned to their surrounding environment. We teach you to orient the aircraft using map and compass and apply any course corrections that may be needed in flight.
Performance and planning
Before each flight we must determine whether it is safe in terms of weight limits, fuel supply, and helicopter performance on any given day. Performance and planning outlines how pilots compute the operational limits of the helicopter in flight.
PPL Theory Course on-site
The next theory course for PPL(H) runs 11 January- 22 January 2027
The course runs 9am – 4pm, Monday to Friday for two weeks, with plenty of homework and practice examinations. Class sizes are a maximum of 6 to ensure personal attention.
All materials are provided, and no prior knowledge is required, however 5 hours or more training experience in helicopters is recommended as this will help with grasping some of the aerodynamic and aircraft system concepts.
The CASA PPL theory examination can be sat at Melbourne Heli on completion of the course.
Course cost is $3300 including GST. The CASA examination is charged separately.
For bookings email chris@melbourneheli.com or call 03 9118 8841