helicopter private pilot training tampa bay aviation

Commercial Pilot Training

A Commercial Pilot License is the first step into the career orientated portion of aviation. Students will become more proficient in aviation weather, the flight computer and the Aeronautical Information Manual.

Plans and Pricing

A Commercial Pilot License (CPL) permits the holder to be compensated for flying, meaning that the pilot will now be rated to fly for hire. The license opens the door for a career in aviation as a professional pilot. To be eligible for a CPL, applicants must hold at least a PPL. An instrument rating is advised. The FAA minimum requirements for pilots under part 61 regulations are 20 hours of training towards a CPL. There will be ground training that will total about 15 hours. In order to obtain a CPL the pilot must have 150 hours of total flight time. Within those 150 hours, there is a minimum of 100 hours of PIC, 35 of which have to be in a helicopter. You are also required to have 10 solo hours and 5 hours of instrument training. Students are also required to have 50 hours minimum in a helicopter.

Robinson 22 Beta II

$8,340

Aircraft Rental (**20 hours)
Flight Instruction (**20 hours)
Ground Instruction (**15 hours)
*FAA Check Ride
*FAA Written Examine
*Not paid to TBA.
** Estimates are based off of FAA minimum hours. This price is subject to change pending the number of hours it takes each individual to complete the rating. Aircraft rental based on block rate. Prices do not include time building.

Robinson 22 Cadet

$10,940

Aircraft Rental (**20 hours)
Flight Instruction (**20 hours)
Ground Instruction (**15 hours)
*FAA Check Ride
*FAA Written Examine
*Not paid to TBA.
** Estimates are based on FAA minimum hours. This price is subject to change pending the number of hours it takes each individual to complete the rating. Aircraft rental based on block rate. Prices do not include time building.

Robinson 44 Raven II

$13,440

Aircraft Rental (**20 hours)
Flight Instruction (**20 hours)
Ground Instruction (**15 hours)
*FAA Check Ride
*FAA Written Examine
*Not paid to TBA.
** Estimates are based on FAA minimum hours. This price is subject to change pending the number of hours it takes each individual to complete the rating. Aircraft rental based on block rate. Prices do not include time building.

What Our Students Are Saying

Don’t just take it from us, let our students do the talking!

“I absolutely CANNOT say enough good things about this operation! Just got my CFI from them, and had fun doing it (which I’m told is not a common phenomenon). It took minimal time, and the cost was about what you’d expect to pay at American Flyers, or ATP for CFI. However, the quality of training you will receive here will far exceed the standard of the “pilot mills”. Larry was my primary instructor but I also flew with Josh, Durant and Mike, all of whom were very knowledgeable and professional (in addition being “down to earth”, and cool). Look no further than these guys for all of your flight training needs! They’re awesome!!!”

Damian W.

“Known to be the best Part 61 school for a reason!

Tampa Bay Aviation, located at Clearwater Airpark, boasts an amazing fleet of fixed wing and rotor craft aircraft,that are always kept in excellent condition, ready to fly at a moments notice. This flight school has the best team of CFIs I have ever trained with. Taking into account the excellent rentals rates for amazing quality aircraft, with highly experienced CFIs and staff, it is truly safe to say the TBA is one of the top Flight Schools in the nation!”

Jose A.

“Tampa Bay Aviation is an excellent operation. My son did his flight training here last summer and earned his Private Pilot License, and it inspired me to learn to fly as well. The instructors are excellent, the aircraft are up to date and the staff is friendly and helpful. We have recommended them to several friends and they have had excellent experiences as well. Overall, it is a great place to fly. i HIGHLY recommend it!”

Eric M.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible to get a pilots license?

Be at least 17 years old.
Be able to read, speak, write and understand the English language.
Pass a required knowledge test.
Pass a required oral and practical flight test administered by a FAA designated examiner.
Hold either a student or sport pilot certificate.
Get a Third Class Medical Certificate.

How much time will it take?

IN THE AIR - The FAA requires a minimum of 40 Hours Total Flight Time with 20 Hours Flight Instruction. However, many students require more time. There’s no rush and we won’t push you to complete your training until you’re ready. Our students average around 50 total hours of training.

ON THE GROUND – 35 Hours Ground Instruction

Other stuff

Questions About Flight Training?

Have questions about flight training? Contact us and someone will get right back to you.

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