HeliSpeed Academy has become the only helicopter training organisation in Europe approved to deliver a simulator-based training model across the modular Private Pilot Licence (Helicopter) [PPL(H)], Commercial Pilot Licence (Helicopter) [CPL(H)], and Night Rating (H).
The approval marks an evolution in helicopter pilot training delivery. UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) licence standards under UK Part-FCL remain unchanged; however, HeliSpeed Academy has redesigned how those standards are met, with increased emphasis on structured simulator use, competency-based training, and objective performance assessment.
The Academy’s training system combines aircraft flight training with approved helicopter simulation using an FSTD II MCC device, supported by its proprietary digital training platform, TrainTrax®, which underpins lesson preparation, briefing, assessment, and quality assurance.
Following comprehensive syllabus redevelopment and task-to-tool allocation, the UK CAA has authorised HeliSpeed Academy to apply reduced minimum flight training hours across these courses. These reductions do not remove training content or alter learning objectives but reflect improved training efficiency and consistency achieved through simulator-supported learning.
“Helicopter training regulations already allow this level of innovation,” said Geoff Packer of HeliSpeed Academy. “What has been required is the willingness to redesign syllabi, invest in approved simulation, and work closely with the regulator to demonstrate that safety and training standards are fully maintained.”
HeliSpeed Academy is currently the only organisation in the UK and Europe to have implemented this approach across multiple helicopter licences.
Founded within commercial offshore helicopter operations, HeliSpeed Academy integrates operational experience into its training programmes, supporting realistic, scenario-based instruction aligned with modern helicopter operations.
The system is further supported by HeliTrax®, working alongside TrainTrax®, to provide digital oversight, objective grading, instructor standardisation, and auditable training records across simulator and aircraft training.
HeliSpeed Academy said its approach demonstrates how UK Part-FCL helicopter licences can be delivered through a modern, competency-focused training system while remaining fully compliant with UK CAA requirements
READ MORE ROTOR PRO: https://justhelicopters.com/Magazine
WATCH ROTOR PRO YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://buff.ly/3Md0T3y
You can also find us on
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rotorpro1
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/rotorpro1
Twitter - https://twitter.com/justhelicopters
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/rotorpro