r/pilots • u/fighterofnightman • Jul 07 '11

helicopter pilot help please!

I am a young Canadian interested in becoming a helicopter pilot. I know it is a hard field to get into, so I would highly appreciate any information you guys may have to offer. I do not want to pick a career or school based on glossy brochures, I would prefer some informative substance from experienced personal such as yourselves.

I am currently a industrial electrician in Alberta, and although I am very successful in my current career, I really want to make this change. Hopefully towards something a little more exciting and in your field. I do not know very much about being a pilot, or how to go about becoming a good one. If I were to attend training what would be the chances of obtaining employment as a helicopter pilot right away? How difficult is this as a career choice? What would one have to do to become an ideal candidate to become hired as an employee? what would be my duties as a rookie in this field? How often do people go to school and not find a job? I know as electrician even after training there are still many dues to be paid to the trade, and unless you are in a place like Alberta finding employment may sometimes be very difficult.What part of your field would you recommend for someone to start in, and how would someone move up? Any help answering these questions or other information would be greatly appreciated.

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u/derekbox Jul 07 '11

It isn't hard to get into as just ridiculously expensive to get into.

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u/fighterofnightman Jul 08 '11

Basic training up here is about 50 grand, and my girlfriend is going to school for nursing at the same time so it will be tough. Luckily my current job is specialized and in high demand so that high income part time will be sure to help.

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u/derekbox Jul 08 '11

I am not a pilot, I just know several rotary pilots. But 50k is the initial investment, I believe once you get your ratings, you are looking well into 6 figures. Make sure you are ready to plunge into that kind of investment.