Everything you need to know before getting started. If your question isn't here, call us on 0508 CHOPPER or send an email — we're happy to talk.
If it rains you can rebook the flight for another day that suits you. Weather is an honest part of flying — we'll never send you up in unsuitable conditions.
Contact us by email or phone and we'll send out an Information Pack. You're also welcome to visit our base at Ardmore Airfield to check out the facility, view our aircraft, and ask any questions you have.
Absolutely. Our instructors will tailor a training programme to suit your timeframe and work schedule. Many of our students complete their training around full-time jobs.
A minimum of 50 hours flight time is required by the CAA — comprising at least 35 hours dual instruction and 15 hours solo (PIC) flight. A full-time student can expect to complete the PPL in approximately four months, or around 12 months part-time.
A minimum of 150 hours total flight time, including hours logged during your PPL. Your CPL training will include a minimum of 35 hours dual instruction and 35 hours solo (PIC) flight. Full-time students can expect approximately 9 months; part-time around 24 months.
Yes. Ardmore Helicopters conducts NZQA-approved theory courses in conjunction with our associate, Ardmore Flying School. Class sizes are kept small and our students consistently achieve high results. One-on-one tutoring is available at times to suit the individual.
Our graduates work across all parts of the industry in New Zealand and internationally — rescue, utility, oil and gas, tourism, agriculture, and corporate operations. We're happy to put prospective students in touch with our graduates working in any of these sectors.
A Class 2 Aviation Medical is required for the PPL. A Class 1 Aviation Medical is required for the CPL and Instructor Rating. We recommend arranging your medical early in the process — contact us and we can point you in the right direction.
Yes — and we encourage it. Come out to 453 Airfield Road, Ardmore Aerodrome, and meet the team, see the aircraft, and get a feel for the school. A trial flight is also a great way to experience what training is like before you commit to a full course.