FAA Private Pilot Helicopter (PRH)RegulationsHard
A student pilot is progressing toward a private pilot certificate with a helicopter rating. According to 14 CFR 61.109(b), what is the minimum total flight time required before the practical test?
- A35 hours total flight time
- B20 hours total flight time
- C40 hours total flight time
- D50 hours total flight time
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 40 hours total flight time
14 CFR 61.109(b) requires a minimum of 40 hours of flight time for a private pilot certificate with a helicopter rating, including at least 20 hours of flight instruction and 10 hours of solo flight time, along with specific cross-country, night, and instrument training requirements.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 35 hours is not the correct minimum total for the helicopter rating.
- B. 20 hours corresponds to the minimum instruction hours required, not the total.
- D. 50 hours exceeds the actual regulatory minimum, though many applicants exceed the minimum in practice.
Private Pilot Helicopter Aeronautical Experience
14 CFR 61.109(b) sets the minimum flight experience for a private pilot certificate with a helicopter rating at 40 hours total flight time, including 20 hours of instruction and 10 hours solo.
- 40 hours total minimum flight time
- Includes 20 hours instruction, 10 hours solo
- Also requires specific cross-country, night (or additional instrument), and solo cross-country time
Memory trick: 'Forty for flight' — the minimum hour bar for a helicopter private ticket.