Helicopter CPL Certification (Non Vocational)

Part 61 Program, CPL license

helicopterA Commercial rating is required for a pilot to be employed as a professional pilot. While this is not the only rating needed to become employable, it is generally the third step in flight training. This training course teaches pilots to fly to higher and more precise standards to prepare them for first commercial helicopter pilot job.

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Flight School  ›  Programs & Courses  ›  Helicopter CPL Certification

Eligibility For Enrollment

  • Hold at least Helicopter Private Pilot Certificate

What’s Included

  • 20 hoursin-class ground school
  • 10 hoursFlight Briefings
  • 11 hoursFLYIT Simulator
  • 46.5 hourssolo in a Schweizer 300C
  • 20 hoursdual in a Schweizer 300C
  • 1.2 hoursFAA Exam (Aircraft fee)
Price

We are not asking for payments upfront. You will start paying for training when your visa is approved and you arrived in USA.

Frequently Asked Questions

At Pelican Flight Training in Pembroke Pines, Florida, the time it takes to become a commercial pilot depends on several factors — including what licenses you already hold, the licenses you wish to obtain, and the visa program you are interested in (F-1 or M-1).

In general, training duration can range from a few months to over a year, depending on your starting point and training frequency.

For a more accurate timeline tailored to your goals, we recommend submitting a request through our website so we can provide detailed guidance based on your individual profile.

Helicopter pilots can earn a competitive salary, though earnings vary by experience, region, and job type (e.g., commercial transport, emergency services, tourism).

Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced pilots in specialized roles can earn significantly more. For personalized guidance, feel free to contact us through our website.

Yes, helicopter pilots are in demand in various sectors such as EMS, firefighting, law enforcement, and tourism. Demand can vary by region and specialization.

If you'd like help identifying opportunities or have further questions, please submit an inquiry through our website — we’d be happy to assist!

Yes, the aviation industry is currently experiencing a global pilot shortage. Contributing factors include mandatory retirements, limited training capacity, and increased demand for air travel post-pandemic.

According to Boeing’s 2023 Pilot and Technician Outlook, over 600,000 new pilots will be needed globally by 2042 — with North America requiring over 130,000 of them.

This makes it a highly strategic time to enter the profession and begin your flight training journey.

Yes, it is a great time to become a pilot. Due to a significant pilot shortage, there are excellent career prospects, including competitive salaries, signing bonuses, and faster advancement opportunities.

With strong industry demand and global growth in air travel, starting your training now can open the door to a long-term, fulfilling career in aviation.

Pelican Flight School, based in South Florida, offers one of the most comprehensive flight training programs in the region, taking full advantage of the state’s favorable weather conditions. Operating out of North Perry Airport, the school benefits from the consistent winds and clear skies, ensuring that students maximize their flying hours year-round. Florida’s location also offers a unique learning environment, with proximity to major airports like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Opa-Locka, giving students invaluable experience in navigating busy airspaces. With over 30 years of experience, Pelican Flight School is recognized for its focus on safety, high-quality instruction, and personalized training programs for both beginners and seasoned pilots. Whether you are converting a foreign license or starting from zero hours, our Florida-based flight school provides everything you need to succeed in aviation.

Explore Our Flight School – Watch the Video

Welcome to Pelican Flight Training, Florida's premier flight school offering one of the best training programs for pilots from around the world. We offer a structured program that will take you all the way from private pilot rank to ATP and airline readiness.

In this video, you'll learn what makes our flight school so special — the passion, the professionalism, and the world-class fleet of aircraft used for training. From your first flight to becoming a professional pilot, we will be with you every step of the way.

Take a look right now and see why training at Pelican isn't just about learning — it's about transformation.

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What Our Students Say

★★★★★
Louis
Louis
Student
I attended Pelican Flight Training at North Perry Airport in Pembroke Pines, Florida, starting in November 2021, and I also worked at the school afterward as a Flight Instructor. Throughout my training and teaching, the school played a crucial role in helping me achieve my goals. The instructors and the training standards they uphold their students to are very professional. I met fantastic people and learned a lot from the experience as well as my peers.
Camilo
Camilo
Student
I attended PFT as an international student F-1, and everything was pretty quick and easy. The staff from this school is beyond outstanding. I’m very thankful to Oleksandra and Anna, they’re very clear and extremely helpful at anytime. Instructors are very cool and good, facilities are fine, they provide you with advices and choices to do everything right. Overall very nice environment.
Robert
Robert
Student
Pelican Flight Training is the best school around. I’ve tried other schools but Pelican is the most Professional my personal opinion. The atmosphere is so positive, the instructors are all so nice and friendly and I just passed my instrument Rating at Pelican and my instructor Adrian was TERRIFIC! And I am so looking forward to going back to start my commercial with them.
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Pelican students life

Request More Information

We will be happy to personally assist you in making decision for your future airline career by providing you with all the information you might need and providing answers to all of your questions. Please complete the form, and we will be in touch with you soon.

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