Helicopter Training: From the Field

U.K. Flight School Takes Two Schweizer 300CBis

Cabair Flying Schools, a United Kingdom-based group training pilots for almost four decades, has received its first two Schweizer Aircraft 300CBis. Cabair operates more than 150 aircraft and has seven private-pilot schools around the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates.

The Cabair College of Air Training also offers a fully JAA-approved commercial pilot license (helicopter) course, which is conducted entirely from Cranfield Airport, Bedford. The course runs 48 weeks of full-time training. Graduates earn a JAA commercial licence, restricted to use for visual flying.

Embry-Riddle Teams On English Language Training

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has teamed with Aviation English Services of New Zealand to offer courses teaching English to pilots who fly internationally.

The International Civil Aviation Organization has developed a set of English language proficiency standards and recommended practices for pilots and air traffic controllers operating internationally. This comes in response to concern over the role of language as a causal factor in a number of high-profile accidents.

According to Embry-Riddle, the proficiency standards are determined through a series of oral and written tests, as well as on-line courses and lab sessions taught at one of the university’s 130 locations throughout the world. Aviation English Services said it consulted with ICAO before undertaking the venture.

Silver State Opens Academy in New York

Silver State Helicopters has opened its 34th flight academy at Stewart International Airport in New Windsor, N.Y.

The school offers what Silver State is a 15-month program to give students the opportunity to earn a private or commercial helicopter pilot’s license.

Based in North Las Vegas, Nev., Silver State said the academy will offer 200 hr of helicopter training and 300 hr of training in classrooms and simulators for $70,000. Silver State provides a wide range of services, including charters, aerial tours, photography, and air ambulance.