Helicopter Instructor’s Handbook (PDF)

The FAA’s primary resource for teaching helicopter operations, this handbook to helicopter flight training contains detailed coverage of all required knowledge areas. This manual is a companion to the Helicopter Flying Handbook and is designed as a technical manual for use by applicants who are preparing for their flight instructor pilot certificate with a helicopter class rating, as well as for experienced helicopter instructors preparing other pilots for a helicopter rating. Illustrated throughout with detailed, full-color drawings and photographs, it covers both aeronautical knowledge and skills for operating the aircraft and the FAA’s official helicopter-instructing methods, procedures, and regulations. In addition to a basic introduction to the helicopter and its systems, chapters on aerodynamics, flight controls, performance, ground procedures, flight maneuvers, emergencies and hazards, attitude instrument flying, and night operations are included. Flight training subjects are supported with information on common student errors, practical flight instructor tips and strategies, instructional hazards, and sample lesson plans.