Private pilot training can generally be started from the age of 16. For solo flights, you will need a valid Class 2 medical certificate and proof of a clean record must be provided for the license to be issued.

The Federal Office gives anyone interested the opportunity to complete up to two hours of flying with a flight instructor without a learner's permit. These "taster flights" give the student the opportunity to get an idea of what training to become a helicopter pilot is like.

The flight lessons are held by flight instructors in the same way as for helicopter training. The student pilot sits in the pilot's seat at the dual controls and is familiarized with the helicopter. These flight lessons are fully credited to the student pilot's future training period.

The training period includes at least 45 flight hours. The student pilot must be at least 17 years old for a private pilot's license. Theoretical training must take place parallel to the practical training.

The theory test essentially covers the following subjects: aviation law, general aircraft knowledge, flight performance and planning, human performance, meteorology, navigation, operating procedures, fundamentals of flight, international radio telephony.

Do you want to know more? The best thing to do is to book a helicopter flight to "fly yourself" and gain some initial experience and discuss your options with the flight instructor.