Mountain Flying Course

The Mountain Flying Course is designed for the pilot who wants to gain valuable high altitude training experience and broaden their skills in cross country flight planning (both VFR and IFR), flying in the instrument enroute structure and crew resource management. This is an advanced level course recommended for pilots wishing to increase their level of proficiency in many areas including mountain flying skills.

Course Information:

This exciting 3-day course, set in the mountains of New Mexico, will provide you with the training necessary to operate in mountainous terrain and high altitude conditions in confidence. The course includes common areas of concern such as: power management, density altitude, orographic turbulence, unique weather considerations, and emergency procedures.

The Robinson R44 or R66 helicopter is used for the course for its better safety margins operating at higher altitudes. As a bonus, pilots will log cross-country, density altitude 5000’+ and instrument time during enroute cross countries.

Training Content:

  • Aircraft performance
  • Survival experience
  • Terrain considerations
  • Mountain weather
  • Weather planning
  • Route planning
  • Flying techniques
  • Running landings and take-offs
  • Pinnacle operations
  • Valleys and ridgelines
  • Emergency procedures

Enrollment Prerequisites:

  • Hold at least an FAA Private Helicopter Pilot license
  • Hold a PIC endorsement for the R44 (see R44 Transition Course) if flying the R44

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Hold an FAA private helicopter pilot license
  • Read, speak, write and understand English
  • Hold at least a third class medical certificate

R-44 Option

COURSE COMPONENT HOURS RATE TOTAL
Ground and Flight Instruction N/A $0 $0
Helicopter Rental N/A $0 $0
Meals and Lodging N/A $0 $0
All Inclusive Pricing N/A $11,500 $11,500
Mountain Flying Course Total $11,500