Air Transport with Helicopter Pilot Training BSc (Hons)

Buckinghamshire New University

Do you want to become a commercial helicopter pilot? We can help you achieve your dream. This unique programme gives you the opportunity to obtain a university degree and a frozen Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) (H) in just three years of full-time study - and at a lower cost than doing them separately. You’ll work with our UK-leading partner Heli Air towards your ATPL and we will help prepare you for a career in the exciting world of rotary wing aviation.

On our BSc (Hons) Air Transport with Helicopter Pilot Training degree, you’ll work with one of our UK-leading training partners towards your PPL or ATPL. Focused modules and study will develop your skills and prepare you for a successful career in rotary wing aviation. We have been a leader in aviation degrees and pilot training for two decades, and you will be taught by academics and instructors who have experience of working in the aviation industry.

We have a strong focus on employability, and our professional connections and training partners give you the chance to fully immerse yourself in the industry. We work with Heli Air Ltd , who operates one of the most modern and reliable fleets of training aircraft in the world. The fleet includes the world's first Glass Cockpit Robinson R22, which features some systems similar to those found in modern large commercial helicopter flight decks, including EPIS, AHRS and GNSS instruments.

On successful completion of this course, and following completion of your external flight training, you will obtain a recognised UK Honours degree and qualify for a ‘frozen’ Airline Transport Pilot Licence. Once you have completed the required professional experiences, the frozen prefix will be dropped.

BNU aviation students enjoy free membership of the Royal Aeronautical Society, the UK professional association dedicated to the aerospace and aviation industry. As a member, you will be able to participate in a number of exciting industry events, including conferences, guest talks, student competitions, and networking opportunities.

You can also be able to join the highly active Students’ Union Aviation Society. You’ll get to meet even more people who are passionate about the industry and guest speakers. The Society organises trips to places of interest, events and conferences to help you stand out when you graduate.

A typical offer will require a UCAS tariff score of: 96 - 120. You also need at least two A-levels and a GCSE Maths and English at grade C/4. Mature students with non-standard qualifications will be considered on an individual basis. All students will require at a minimum a Class II Medical in order to undertake their PPL solo, those students wishing to undertake Commercial training will need to gain a Class I Medical prior to enrolling with their selected ATO. Further information on the requirements of Class I and II Medicals, including approved AME's, can be found on the CAA website.

Having finished this programme of study and all the associated air-training modules, you’ll be the proud owner of a Commercial Helicopter Pilot Licence and a frozen ATPL(H). You’ll be fully qualified to find employment as a helicopter pilot and once you meet the relevant professional experience criteria, the ‘frozen’ prefix will be dropped.

You’ll also have developed a wider understanding of the airline business and be able to pursue a variety of different careers within the aviation industry.