cost...
Whirlybird uses flat rate pricing for both ground and flight training no matter what license you are working towards. This can save you tens of thousands of dollars compared to other flight schools that increase there rates substantially for instrument, certified flight instructor (CFI), and certified flight instructor instrument (CFII) training. With Whirlybirds low flat rate pricing your instrument rating can be obtained at no additional charge or higher flight rate, while putting time towards the 150 hours required for your commercial license decreasing your overall costs even further.
Whirlybird does not take any money up front meaning you pay as you go. Whirlybird does not charge pre- or post-flight fees, meaning that you're only paying for the time that your instructor is there with you. Whirlybird also does not charge a fuel surcharge. This alone can save you $3,500 or more.
Most important though is quality of instruction. Whirlybird offers high quality instruction that prepares students for what they will face in the real world. This type of training is invaluable and makes a safer more competent pilot. Whirlybird gives you the best of both worlds high quality instruction at fair honest pricing.
To our knowledge our R44 pricing is the lowest in the nation.
If you prefer you may use the R22 for your private training.
Training Costs
With Instructor / Solo Flight
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Private
|
Instrument
|
Commercial
|
CFI
|
CFII
|
|
| Aircraft | R44 | Enstrom 280 | R22 Beta II | R22 Beta II | Enstrom 280 |
| Price Per Hr. | $330/$300 | $360 | $260/$225 | $260 | $360 |
| Hours | 30/10 | 50 | 50/10 | 10 hrs | 10 hrs |
| Flight | $12,900 | $18,000 | $15,250 | $2,600 | $3,600 |
| Price Per Hr. | $45 | $45 | $45 | $45 | $45 |
| Hours | 40 hrs | 40 hrs | 40 hrs | 20 hrs | 20 hrs |
| Ground | $1,800 | $1,800 | $1,800 | $900 | $900 |
| Exams | $450 | $450 | $450 | $500 | $500 |
| Total | $15,150 | $20,250 | $17,500 | $4,000 | $5,000 |
| Total Professional Program | $61,900 |
| Total Pro Program with 200 hours total time | $68,650 |
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Comparison to local schools average pricing |
|
| Whirlybird Helicopters Pro Program | $68,650 |
| Local Schools | $80,000 |
| Minimum savings by flying Whirly |
$11,350 |
MD500 Cost $850 per hour
Whirlybird does have headsets available for use at no additional charge to minimize cost.
The amounts above vary from individual to individual up or down, but are a good guide to total expenses.