The Ultimate Guide to Acing Your Helicopter Check Ride

Embarking on the journey to become a licensed helicopter pilot is an exhilarating adventure, filled with both challenges and triumphs. At 3G Heli Prep, we understand that the process can seem daunting at first, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can soar through your tests with confidence. Whether you're gearing up for the written test, the check ride, or looking to refine your skills post-certification, we've compiled a comprehensive guide to ensure you're ready for takeoff.

Studying for the Written Test

The written test is your first major hurdle. It assesses your knowledge on a wide array of topics, from helicopter systems to weather theory. Here's how to tackle it:

• Invest in Quality Study Materials: Consider the ASA Test Prep ($60) as it covers a breadth of subjects you'll be tested on.

• Aim for Excellence: While passing requires a 70%, strive for an 85% or better to solidify your understanding.

Preparing for the Day of the Test

The night before and the day of your test are crucial. Ensure you:

• Rest Well: A good night's sleep is imperative. Your brain functions better when well-rested.

• Trust Your Instincts: Often, your first answer is the correct one.

• Process of Elimination: Weed out incorrect answers to improve your odds of selecting the right one.

• Relax: Taking a test can be tough, be sure to relax your body and read everything thoroughly. 

Remember, keeping the record of your passing score is essential. Use it to review areas of improvement.

The Check Ride: Your Moment to Shine

The check ride is where you demonstrate your practical knowledge and skills. Preparation is key:

• Know Your Examiner: Researching and understanding the style of your examiner can give you an edge.

• Prep Your Documents: Ensure all paperwork, including IACRA forms, logbook endorsements, and photo ID, are in order.

• Checkride Binder: Have everything organized and ready to go for your logbook, 8710 or IACRA login information printed out, checklists, Performance Charts, Weight and Balance, Navigation Log and anything else to help you pass your ride!

• Dress Professionally: Don't show up with ripped jeans or sweats.  Dress appropriately!

• Be Early: Arrive at least 60 minutes before to check weather and preflight the aircraft.

• Bring Tabbed Books: Having your FAR/AIM, Logbook, and any other books tabbed is a great way to demonstrate that you're taking this checkride seriously!

• Headset & Kneeboard & Checklists: Make sure you bring everything you need for a successful flight

• Snacks/Food/Water: This will take a few hours, keep your body fueled for success!!

Oral Portion

For the oral portion, clarity, brevity, and safety-first attitudes are your best friends. Demonstrating competency, confidence, and a thorough understanding of safety procedures will set you apart.

• DPE is not looking to FAIL you: Your DPE wants you to succeed, but more than that he wants you to be safe.  Would you be safe to take his grandmother out for a flight?

• Relax: It's stressful but relax as much as you can

• Be Friendly / Pleasant: Don't ever argue with the examiner, be teachable and pleasant.

• Be Confident: Have confidence in what you know and what you can do.

• Treat it like another Lesson: Your examiner will want to 'teach you' a little on the exam, let him talk and message his/her ego.

• Short / Sweet Answers: Don't offer more information than you need to answer the question asked. 

• If unsure, ASK: If you're unsure of what the examiner is asking be sure to ask for clarification.

• Always Error on the side of Safety: Be as safe as you can, if you're unsure about anything always error on the safe side of things.

• Memorize/Understand: Systems, Limitations, Emergency Procedures, Weather Minimums, Regulations, Decoding METAR/TAF, Airspace, Chart symbols, Airport Markings, Aeromedical, Night time definitions.

Flight Portion

• Preflight with or w/o Examiner: During your preflight your examiner may wander over and distract you or ask you questions. Be sure to not loose your spot of where you were during the preflight.

• Continue to ask you questions: Just because the 'oral' portion of the checkride is over, the examiner will still ask you questions during the flight portion.

• Examiner won't touch the controls: You're on your own, so act accordingly!

• He may act as ATC: He/she may act as ATC during the flight portion.

• Know where you are at all times on the chart: Nothing is more embarrassing than not knowing where you are as a pilot.

• Clearing Turns!! Ask the Examiner to 'Help you look': Always clear the area before doing a maneuver. 

• You can always 'Go around': If you don't like the look of something, or you feel unsafe, always go around. Safety First!

• Maintain Altitude / Airspeed: There are standards that you have to meet, keep your scan going at all times!

• Always error on the side of SAFETY: Be safe, always!

• Expect a 'Distraction' or 'Emergency' during high workloads: Your examiner will try to distract you by dropping a pencil, asking a question or telling a story to see how you can prioritize tasks.

• It's ok to say 'Stand By' to the examiner:  Be polite, but you may have to tell the examiner to stand by or wait so you can listen to the radio, perform a maneuver or complete a task.

• Engine failure 'Spot may be behind you...': Always know where you're going to land, a better spot may be behind you.

 After Passing: Next Steps

Passing your tests is a massive achievement, but the learning never stops in aviation. Continuous improvement and staying updated on regulations and best practices ensure you not only remain a licensed pilot but a proficient one.

For those looking to further their education and career in aviation, 3G Heli Prep offers advanced courses and personalized coaching to help you reach new heights. From instrument ratings to commercial licenses, our expert instructors are here to guide you every step of the way.

Conclusion

Becoming a helicopter pilot is a dream for many, but it requires dedication, hard work, and the right guidance. At 3G Heli Prep, we're committed to providing that guidance, ensuring you're not just prepared but poised for success in your helicopter piloting career. Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your skills, we're here to support your journey skyward.

Remember, every pilot's journey is unique, but with the right preparation and mindset, the sky's not the limit—it's your playground.

For more insights and resources, visit 3G Heli Prep and take the first step towards unlocking your potential as a helicopter pilot today.