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1. Do you offer government funding (VET)?
No, all Australian Helicopter Academy students are self-funded, and we do not offer VET loans at this time.
2. How long will training take?
Our courses run twice a year: starting in late January and mid-August. Each course lasts approximately 16 weeks.
3. Do you accept international students?
Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in Australia long-term.
4. What are the pre-requisites?
7 CPL-H CASA Theory Exams
All theory exams must be completed before starting flight training to ensure you understand the course material.
CASA Class 1 Medical
This can take time to obtain, so we recommend starting the process early. You need it before your first solo flight.
Aviation Security Identification Card (Red ASIC)
Required for airside access. You can apply through Veritas or Aviation ID Australia.
5. What is your policy on flight hours before completing theory exams?
We recommend completing all theory exams before beginning flight training, as per the prerequisites.
6. Is accommodation provided?
Accommodation can be provided upon request. Fees and conditions apply. Transport is not provided.
7. How many instructors will I have?
We have 3 full-time instructors. We aim to consolidate your early flight hours with one instructor before rotating.
8. Can you help with theory training?
Our primary focus is on flying, but we integrate theory subjects to enhance your understanding during training. See the prerequisites for more details.
9. Are there additional fees besides the hourly rate?
No, all fees, including landing fees, are included in the hourly rate.
10. How experienced is your most senior instructor?
Brad Noble is the Head of Operations for AHA, and our most senior instructor. He has a wide range of experience which include many hours of external load (slinging), remote operations, firefighting, photography/film, survey and VIP charter.
11. Do you have an in-house flight examiner?
We use well-known flight examiners who travel to Kununurra for the course’s final flight tests. Organising your own examiner requires additional AHA approval and costs.
12. Can I talk to current or former students?
Absolutely! Contact us, and we’ll connect you with them.
13. Is there any practical experience with helicopter maintenance?
While practical maintenance is not part of the course, our in-house maintenance at the HeliSpirit Hangar allows for some hands-on experience.
14. When will I fly solo, and what does that involve?
Most students fly solo around 27-30 hours into the course, based on individual progress.
15. How many lessons per day and per week do you recommend?
At the beginning of training, 1 flight and one briefing per week is expected. As the course progresses, daily flights and briefings will increase.
16. Where will I conduct navigation exercises?
You’ll fly to multiple aerodromes and approved helipads around Kununurra, learning both aeroplane and helicopter procedures, which will aid your decision-making and landing skills.
17. How much training will I receive from senior instructors versus lower-time instructors?
Our senior instructors ensure you receive top-quality training to maximize your time and investment.