This course provides the skills and knowledge required to operate a helicopter in Class G environments and controlled airspaces, and is recognised by both the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and the Australian Defence Forces (ADF).
This course covers the skills and knowledge required to operate a helicopter in Class G environments and controlled airspaces, and is recognised by both the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) and the Australian Defence Forces (ADF). It could set you up for a career as a helicopter pilot in tourism, policing, emergency services, and much more!
In addition to helicopter control, handling and flying — the course covers aircraft radio communications, navigation, aviation fatigue, threat and error management, aircraft passengers and cargo, aircraft safety procedures, managing abnormal situations, advanced helicopter manoeuvres, pre-solo exercises, situational awareness, and much more.
The course is delivered through a combination of classroom theory, group briefings, and individual flying lessons.
Completion of this nationally recognised and accredited qualification may provide credit towards a relevant higher level qualification or university degree, should you wish to pursue further study in this field.
Where can this training take you?
In the remote Australian outback, helicopters are used to scout out wild herds of cattle and buffalo. In this short video, you'll meet Willie Cook — a helicopter pilot who rounds up animals from the sky.
It's an unusual job with some unique perks, including getting a front row seat to some of the most remote and beautiful parts on Australia from the air.
This is just one of the exciting job options you could explore, with this training.
Choose a WA TAFE college that delivers this course
To find out more about doing this course at a WA TAFE college, select one of the TAFEs listed below to read their course descriptions. You'll also be able to see at which TAFE campus/es the course is delivered.
If you would like further information such as when the course is available and how to enrol, and details of course fees, or if you have questions about how the course is delivered, please follow the Find out more link to go to the TAFE's website where you will find full course details and contact information so that you can speak to the TAFE directly.
Reach new heights as a commercial helicopter pilot
Take your career to the skies with the skills and knowledge to become a commercial helicopter pilot. Learn to fly light piston helicopters including knowing how to perform in normal and emergency conditions.
Our commercial pilot’s course enables you to reach toward certification as a commercial pilot through Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA)’s Part 61 Flight crew licensing regulations. We offer training full time that blends your theory study at campus with flying time located at Jandakot airport.
Outside of class time, you will complete 119 additional hours flying in a range of conditions and times of day to prepare you well for a diverse aviation career and increasing your employability. Our lecturers work with you to help you traverse a wide range of air transport operations, including passenger, charter and cargo operations; and how to use your autonomy, judgement and defined responsibility for an extensive range of scenarios that you might face in the skies.
Information Sessions
Join us on campus to get all the need-to-know details on studying Pilot Studies at South Metropolitan TAFE. You’ll get a breakdown of the fixed-wing and helicopter pilot studies courses, gain insights into entry requirements, meet the lecturers and get expert tips on career opportunities. We’ll also cover essential financial information so you understand the commitment required to become a pilot.
This info session will include:
- a presentation on South Metropolitan TAFE’s pilot studies courses
- an overview of the essential entry requirements and how to apply for a place in 2025
- complimentary light refreshments.
You can still get in touch by completing the ‘Apply Now’ tab on our website to learn more about what you need to get started and explore our Pilot Studies courses, which combine academic and aeronautical knowledge with the necessary flight training to take your career to new heights.
Dates and times
Thursdays, 10:00am at Jandakot Annexe, 23 Eagle Drive, Jandakot.
- 3, 10, 17, 23 and 31 October
- 7, 14, 21 and 28 November
Please note: If sufficient numbers exist, an evening briefing session from 6:00pm will be available on the first Thursday of each month: 7 November and 3 December.
VET Student Loans
Get access to a student loan to help pay for your studies! Conditions apply.
- VET Student Loan conditions
The information presented on the course lists within this website is provided to the Department of Training and Workforce Development by the WA TAFE colleges and private training providers, and is offered as a guide only. It is updated regularly, however some changes to details may occur in between updates. You should always contact the TAFE or private training provider directly to confirm details and/or ask questions.