Membership: Have you tried the app?

So many places to see, things to do

August 1, 2021

The award-winning AOPA app gives you unparalleled access to all things aviation, right from your mobile device.

A new version of the app launched in June, and the AOPA home page now has a quick launch bar at the top; four icons link to our most popular tools. Also added is a dedicated Pilot Passport page, and more. Check it out.

Explore new airports and places to fly.
Use the fully integrated in-app AOPA Airport Directory, even offline.
Check in at airports through the Pilot Passport to earn points, badges, and special prizes.
Keep up to date on the latest aviation news.
Receive timely TFR alerts.
Check out exhilarating videos.
Listen to popular podcasts.
Search for aviation events in your area.
Manage your AOPA membership.

aopa.org/travel/aopa-app

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS
The annual meeting of the members of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association will be held at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, September 14, 2021, at the headquarters of AOPA, 421 Aviation Way, Frederick, Maryland, 21701, located on the Frederick Municipal Airport (FDK), for the purpose of receiving reports and transacting such other business as may properly come before the meeting, specifically including the election of Trustees. If you are not able to attend, but would like to appoint your voting proxy, please visit aopa.org/myaccount or call 800-872-2672. —Justine A. Harrison, Secretary

Ask AOPA

Moving on up

Why is a helicopter rating not like an airplane rating?

Q: I have a private pilot airplane rating and want to add a helicopter rating. I already know how to fly, so isn’t it just a matter of getting a few hours of dual and taking the flight test?

A: No, it is not. Many years ago, when I was learning to fly, I told a buddy about my new endeavor. His response? “It’s just like driving a car, isn’t it?” Well, if it were, one would think they would give you a pilot certificate when you got a driver’s license, but they don’t. It is not the same. Likewise, transitioning to a helicopter is not the same as flying an airplane.

On my first helicopter flight, I noticed that a helicopter takes off with no forward speed, can fly with no speed, needs left pedal to hover, and forward stick to take off. Those differences alone convinced me the training would be a lot more involved than just a few hours. Additionally, you don’t need an airport; you fly in the right seat; the wings rotate; and the forced landing practice is, well…exhilarating!

Minimum hours required for the transition are detailed in FAR 61.109(c). Additionally, 61.63(b) states that you must complete the training and have the applicable aeronautical experience. That means the helicopter-specific hours in FAR 61.109(c) must be obtained before a flight test. You’ll need 10 hours in a helicopter before you can solo. Robinson R22s and R44s require 20 hours of dual before you can solo, even if you are ready at 10.

Prepare to be challenged, have fun, and learn many new aeronautical skills, but don’t be surprised if you need 40 hours or more to prepare for the flight test.

[email protected]

Craig Brown is a senior aviation technical specialist in the AOPA Pilot Information Center.