Podcast: HeliSpeed and RotorHub
On episode 11 of RotorHubs podcasts, our CEO Geoff Packer sat down with Gideon Ewers to discuss a major milestone for the industry. The conversation focused on how HeliSpeed gained permission for simulator hours to be logged towards PPL and CPL exams and development that is reshaping how pilots train in the UK.
A New Era for PPL and CPL Students
Traditionally, hours for PPL and CPL qualifications have taken place in the aircraft. While this builds vital real-world experience, it comes with higher costs and is open to delays due to weather conditions, aircraft availability.
HeliSpeed worked closely with regulators to change that.
As Geoff explained on the HeliSpeed podcast, we secured approval for structured simulator hours to count towards official PPL and CPL exam requirements. These are not informal practice sessions. They are recognised training hours delivered within our approved training syllabus.
As a result, students benefit from professional training equipment, without the risk of flying, aircraft availability difficulties and unsuitable weather conditions.
Why Simulator Integration Matters
As Gideon stated during the podcast, the simulator boost students in “developing courage” for the real world flight.
Modern helicopter simulators replicate real flight scenarios with impressive accuracy. They allow students to practise real world exercises such as vortex ring without the risk, providing the student with more experience of the subject through more detailed demonstrations and first hand experience without the need of significant instructor intervention.
In the aircraft, some scenarios cannot be repeated easily. In a simulator, they can.
Students can pause, reset and try again. They can experience system failures safely. They can practise complex approaches multiple times in a single session. This kind of repetition strengthens understanding and builds confidence before live flight.
Geoff highlighted in the podcast that this approach does not replace aircraft training. Instead, it enhances it. When students step into the helicopter, they arrive better prepared and more capable.
Raising the Standard of Helicopter Pilot Training
Simulator integration allows instructors to expand the scope of training. Introduction to more advanced techniques earlier. Increasing exposure to complex decision-making. “Developing courage” to students in ways that prepare them for real operational environments and demonstrating different weather conditions to familiarise students before real world flying for the first time.
During the conversation with Gideon Ewers, Geoff described this as ” slicker and more efficient training”. Aviation has always advanced through innovation. Integrating simulator hours into PPL and CPL exams represents the next step.
Listen to the HeliSpeed Podcast
The full HeliSpeed podcast episode with Geoff Packer and Gideon Ewers explores the journey behind this approval, the regulatory process and what it means for future pilots. If you are considering PPL or CPL helicopter training, this discussion offers valuable insight into how HeliSpeed continues to lead the way in UK helicopter flight training.
Click the link below for the full podcast!