- Harry McGinn - QLD
"I spent 7 years working around helicopters on the ground before finally committing to getting my CPL. When I asked other pilots “where should I do my training?” the highest recommendations were for AHA. I am very happy to say that AHA lived up to its reputation. The quality of training I received has been second to none. Working with experienced instructors who are also still very much involved with the day to day operations of a busy and successful commercial operation like HeliSpirit, you are taught to think about more than just how to fly the helicopter, you are given an insight into real world situations and how to deal with them. The Kimberly is a beautiful and ideal training ground with consistently good weather and no controlled airspace to contend with, meaning that more of your time in the helicopter is spent building skills and not waiting for clearances. I cannot think of a better way to have started my career flying helicopters." - Dan - QLD
Originally from Brisbane, I came across AHA while doing research about helicopter career opportunities in Australia. Training alongside the engineers, current pilots and admin teams made a big sway in my decision to apply.Some highlights of my training at AHA include being part of a small class and having very individually focused training with incredible instructors who could tailor to my needs.I would highly recommend training with AHA for a wider scope of learning and the incredible flying opportunities on offer in the Kimberley. - Elliott - QLD
I had done a considerable amount of research into flight schools around the country before I came across Australian Helicopter Academy (AHA). AHA immediately stood out as the best fit for me. I felt there was a level of care that went into their students over and above the norm. The head of operations was extremely helpful in answering any questions I had about the industry and career opportunities.Living in and flying around some of the most beautiful parts of the Kimberley was a highlight. The opportunity to land in any number of remote areas with incredibly experienced instructors using real-world scenarios was great. To top it off, being able to speak with current working pilots and engineers in the hangar each day helped me to build a great network and learn so much beyond what is covered in the syllabus.I absolutely recommend AHA - the approach to training, instructors and lifestyle all surpassed my expectations and have given me a strong foundation to continue my flying career - Yannis Karrer - Germany
"AHA goes far beyond just teaching you how to fly, they prepare you for a career as a pilot. The instructors are incredibly supportive while holding you to very high standards, which shows just how much they care about their students. These standards aren’t just about flying, they shape how you show up as a student and junior pilot: arrive prepared, leave your ego at the door, and learn from the wealth of knowledge of everyone at the hangar. I'd be lying if I said training was a walk in the park, it can definitely be challenging at times, but that’s exactly what makes you a good pilot. If you want to be truly prepared for a career in aviation and are ready to put in the work, training at AHA is a no-brainer." - Callum MacKellar - WA
"I couldn’t recommend AHA highly enough. The training environment fully immerses you in the industry which helps endlessly in learning all that is required to get your licence. The people involved in the training and the HeliSpirit employees made the entire process an unforgettable experience." - Sam Bleakley - VIC
"The decision was easy for me when choosing to do my training with AHA. They have experienced instructors who have incredible experience in all areas of the helicopter industry such as long lining, fire fighting, mustering etc. Being exposed to a large helicopter business has also been brilliant as you get real insight into how a professional helicopter company is run and what they expect from a professional pilot.
Having LAME’s and Avionics engineers on hand has been a huge bonus as they gave me a solid understanding to the ins and outs of a wide range of aircraft. Most of all l was influenced with the scenario based flying and the attention to detail that AHA provide so I can become a true professional in the industry."
September 1, 2016