First of all , Congratulations to all my brothers and sisters over fifty for jumping in and living your dreams. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 I got my Commercial helicopter at 56 and my first job was flying as Co-pilot on an S-61 logging and flying Fires. Logging was not so much fun but flying fires was the time of my life. Anybody can do anything they truly want, live your dreams !! And listen to Misha and make your decisions based on the reality out there for you. Good Luck 🚁🇨🇦
@@staircapades hello Jason, I’m assuming your American because there you go directly from training to becoming an instructor and build your hours that way. Unfortunately in Canada it’s the opposite. Your not able to be an instructor till you have several thousand hours of experience, which makes sense. So the difficult part in Canada is finding that first job. Good luck , fly safe. 🚁🇨🇦
im 62,and these youth dont want trespassers with the money to surpass them"too old at 45?"piss off,my grandad didnt loan me the cash at 18 to buy,i worked to buy mine,and,no, i wouldnt sweep floors to get there,but the industry sells dreams to youth,just like joe at buffalo airways and many more..well done to you sir.
59 yrs old here, started flying helicopters off and on in 84. Life happened so i skipped many years before i got my Private in 2013. Just passed my Commercial written with a 98 score. Studying hard and getting ready for the check ride. Have a job waiting flying tours in Fl.. Never give up on your dream!!!!
I am 70 years old and I am taking flying lessons. Congratulations for your programs. I have seen several of them and think you are very clear in your explanations. I agree completely with them if you are trying to make a career as a helicopter pilot, but that's not my objective. My instructor tells me to fill my hours in my logbook, but I tell him there is no point in doing so; I am too old to think about going in and renting a helicopter to go fly around by myself. The only thing I want is to have fun and fulfill the challenge of flying a helicopter while my health allows it.
I'm 62 and feel the same way. Just want to have fun and knock something off my bucket list. Hey, if I can do it and eventually make a buck with it then sure but that is not my goal. I just want to show up to the party in the ultimate toy!
I've been into hot rods n have built a few custom Harley's, I'm a gear head at heart. I have 20+ hours flying single engine Cessnas years ago. Now that I'm retired, n getting a pension check n have plenty of time to do whatever, I wanted to go back to school n go for a degree in Industrial Design, BUT?? Am I going back to work? No. So instead of spending money on more college semesters to gain a few more brain cells, I'd rather take helicopter flying lessons n learn to fly for fun n enjoy my senior years while I still can. And if I can make a few bucks on the side being a heli-pilot, why not? To all those who still can do it, Go for it! You only live once...
I appreciate your balanced approach to this subject. I gained my PPL (H) at age 29 years with two jet ratings and at that stage was fully engaged in a professional career. At age 40 I thought of progressing to CPL (H) with no particular goal for an aviation career but just greater confidence in piloting. The instructor gave me some good advice and I have no regrets in taking it. He said "why stuff up a perfectly good hobby". If you earn good money, can fly anytime you want and pick the perfect days etc, why would you want to hang around a hanger waiting for someone to turn up wanting to fly somewhere in poor weather to take a photo or something about as unfulfilling and feel the pressure to go because you need to fill your pay cheque. At 62 now, I still have a passion to fly, my focus is to maintain my income to support my hobby. For me it is still a perfectly good hobby for as long as my medical remains in order.
Too old to be a helicopter pilot ? HELL NO, if you can do it then do it, never give in. You may never fly commercially as a pilot but who cares, fly privately it is so much fun and you can still take your skills to many levels, I started at 49 don't regret any moment of it even if it is a little harder at this age, when CV-19 lockdown finishes I will take my final check ride test for PPL(H) and plan to keep going until my AME (air medical examiner) says no.
Sure Michael, Mischa’s blog is absolutely spot-on too. Only thing he got wrong was the title, it should have read “Am I too old to make a living flying Helicoiters?”. (Sorry to criticise Mischa, love your channel, learnt loads!!). For me, heli flying costs a fortune and I’ll never have 1000’s of hours but it’s still the best and most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. Love it!! Like Sarah, I won’t stop until the AME nails me down!
@@VividSolutions my goal is supplemental income so if that means flying tours, shuttles, teaching... there are opportunities but they are not the same for everyone regardless of age
I got nervous reading the title. Thankful that you were just talking about "as a career" and not a physical capability. As a retiree, I assumed as long as my medical is valid, then I think the bucket list could still be fulfilled. If I have the financial means. I fly for fun and flying a helicopter sure looks like fun tremendously. Thanks for posting, stay healthy!
I am hoping the same thing, no desire to get a lic. but would love one day to go to BC and take a demo flight with Mischa (sorry if I butchered your name).
Jimmy Siu there is a lot of ignorance in this video, career or private you are never to old, and if an instructor tells you that move on to a good one !! Do anything you want don’t even think about your age 👍🏻
@@copterkid6759 thanks a lot for the encouraging words. May be I won't become a helicopter pilot but I will definitely try. My goal is to hover one. That's on my bucket list.☺
I got my helicopter PPL add-on (USA) three weeks shy of my 70th birthday. I did it for recreation only, but if you are still able, age should not be a factor
That was not unexpected. Totally understand your point. But I'm STILL gonna do it. You have no idea how fantastic your videos and tutorials have been. I can't wait to start! Had another hour in a 44 a few weeks back, it was like seeing an old friend. Keep those videos comin' man! You're a rotocraft guru genius!!!
You know I've been thinking about this. I would actually argue the opposite of what Mischa is saying. How many 16,17,18,19,20,21 yr olds know what they REALLY want to do? I certainly didn't at that age. What are the chances a 40 year old is going to flake off on you? How do you know those kids aren't going to one day change their mind and say "Today I want to work in oil and gas. Maybe I'll go back to school and become a petroleum engineer"? What are the chances a 40 year old with kids, having dropped 70-80k is going to then want to drop being a pilot and pursue something else? I would say very low. Not only that but the mature adult has more skills to bring to the table. Perhaps management or something that may be of value in that regard. I would argue you would have a much higher rate of retaining people that would be considered mature post secondary adults specifically because they aren't in their early 20's. They are more settled down and less likely to flip flop careers. Just my 2 cents.
YES!!!! And we're more responsible!! I also need to add I drove multi million dollar vehicles loaded with passengers, if I could be trusted to do that in downtown Vancouver rush hour traffic, with people STANDING, there is no reason not to trust me to fly a few folks in a million dollar vehicle! And flying is SAFER! AND I started out in the job I was trained for, I didn't have to "work my way up" Drs don't come out of med school and start out scrubbing toilets do they?! Just my opinion
I agree. You don't have the life experience to know what you really want and usually at that age, you are more worried about a job with a focus on pay, to impress friends or family, etc as you don't have the experience to know better.
The sky is the limit. If you want to be a pilot for personal goals, you are never to old. Not everyone wants to fly for a career ,some people like me fly for pure satisfaction...bucket list goal 😀
I retired from my career. I was 64 when I added a private Helicopter rating to my Fixed wing/Instrument ticket ( about 1500 hrs fixed wing) I just passed my Commercial written before the plague hit. I will finish and hopefully be able to fly for firefighting or Angel Flight type work. I do not care about the pay; this is about the passion to fly and the discovery of how much fun and the utility of Rotorcraft . Ill bet I will fly and be valuable in my endeavor. Hell, the reward and 'fix' is doing the rating, everything after will be gravy.
Just finished my PPL at 55 years old, and it did make me feel like 20 again :) Age is not just a number, its in your head, so try to be in an age that make you experienced enough to make the right decisions in life, but young enough to make them reality....
I Love your channel and the videos you produce. I’m a 69 year old, non-current Private Pilot, who has always wanted to fly helicopters. I graduated from high school, just before the war in Vietnam ended and decided to attend college (Mining Engineering), to hopefully avert being drafted. At that time, almost all helicopter pilots came from the Army and private helicopter training was out of my financial reach. I earned my Fixed Wing PP license, while I was in college. After graduation, I worked in the Mining Industry for about 10 years, before I finally purchased a Cessna 172, with a Friend. We leased it to a Flying Club and I began working on my Instrument Rating. I passed the Instrument written exam, but my efforts to finish my training, fizzled, as I started a Family. I continued to fly my young family around the west, until the kids grew larger and we outgrew the weight capacity of the C172 and my budget tightened, as they continued their educations. So, I regrettably sold my plane and let my currency lapse. As I got older, I developed Type II Diabetes and was no longer able to qualify for an FAA Physical. So, I began building and flying a sophisticated Flight Simulator, where I continued my IFR training and dipped my toe into Helicopters, which, of course, I still Love. Watching your videos, I wondered if it would be possible to get a little training, with an instructor, like you, without having to qualify for a flight physical, fully realizing that it’s unlikely that I would ever be able to solo and get my official Helicopter Rating?
I’m 56 with 65 hrs fixed and now have 22 in R22/R44. I also have an A&P license with commercial experience. I’d be happy to finish my career as a flight instructor and later just ground. My sweet spot and if it doesn’t work out, I just do it recreationally. No worries, all good
Of course age is relative and influenced by numerous factors. I am 75 and still regularly fly my RV7 and C185. I recently completed a RotorWay Exec162 which I’m currently learning to fly. I have no illusion as to my capabilities but it is proving easier than I expected thanks in no small measure to a patient and encouraging instructor. My message to anybody toying with the idea is that you won’t know until you have given it a try for a couple of hours
Nobody wants to be told they're too old to start a dream career. That hurts....but gotta keep it real. Stubbornness really won't change the practical reality of the industry no matter how determined we might be. What we can change is that locked in mindset and shifting to a goal that's both attainable and satisfying. My personal experience is that a satisfying passionate hobby in retirement is far more rewarding than perpetually climbing a totem pole where you'll always be stepped over and most likely will never reach the top. Not trying to dash anyone's dream, but I urge guys in my age range (I'm 60) to assess their priorities at this stage in the game to see if there's any alternative viable path they might possibly find fulfilling.
I think you are speaking truth, Brother. I am 59 and reality of attaining commercial pilot work is slim. Better to fly for fun. I have private / instrument but never had the opportunity to go farther. Life is funny like that! Cheers...
Right on brah. I’m 69 retired 6 years ago then got into drones. Yeah not helos but satisfy my lust to be an 🦅 To pay for itself got my part 107 and now have a thriving business. I told my son after he graduated... forget your peers going o coll3ge. How many of them now have jobs in their chosen fields. Instead pursue your passion. Life is about LIVING not just existing to pay the bills. At 40 quit the corporate world and traveled the real world as a Master Scuba Instructor. Time of my freakin life. PYP
Great video, I’m now 55 years old living in the UK.. I know I’m too old to fly commercially but to learn to fly just for pleasure would be great. Continental Europe is a beautiful place, can you imagine being able to fly your own helicopter in Europe for fun...
Ditto, I'm 54... Helicopters is an expensive passion project, try Gryocopters for fun and at our age they have similar flight capabilities, but far more affordable to get into and fly.
RPT I had a 65 year old man training to get his private helicopter licence in my class. That’s 10 years of flying for you guys, if the medical stays good
Great video Misha! I was blessed!... I've got my CPL (FAA) and CFI at 38 years old. No Jobs as CFI, and I didn't want to stay around, to sweep the floor and clean toilets, so I went to Mexico looking for a job as helo pilot on tuna boat. After some months in the country, visiting all the companies who were in my area, I get hired, building hours and make money...I started flying with an old, rough bell47, before going on H500...It was 22 years ago...
I almost got my Private helicopter license in the late '70s after discharge from the Marines. The cost vs benefit numbers quit adding up in 1980 when the rental price of the Hughes 300c hit $118 an hour AND I had zero prospects of landing a job as a helicopter pilot. Remember this was just after the Viet Nam conflict and the market was saturated with recently discharged, high hour ex-military turbine helicopter pilots. My prospects with 45 hours of piston helo time were grim at best. I certified private single-engine land shortly thereafter and flew quite regularly. I went on to a great paying and tremendously fulfilling career in Heavy Equipment and cranes in particular. Married '91, had kids, and bought a house in '93. It was the family's turn now, spending on myself was out of the picture. With new priorities, my flying days came to an end. I'll be 65 in a month, I've been happily retired since my 60'th birthday. The wife and I RV now, she hates flying, but the old itch has never quite gone away. When I hear "that" sound my eyes have always turned skyward. This one really struck a nerve so I felt the need to comment.
Very wise and honest advice. You really hit the nail on the head. It is very difficult for most people to walk away from a good position and good money to start back at the bottom. And even harder to refrain from using our life experience when it’s really not necessary for the job. Great video. I’m 68 and retired. I loved flying when I was younger, but that’s in the past. Helicopters are a young man’s career. So are a lot of other jobs. I’m glad you stated the honest truth. I wish more people were like you.
I'm one of the fifty and over age bracket that's come to realize that it's just too late for me to consider a career in aviation. I was doing my fixed wing commercial pilot training in my early thirties but as it does with many people, life intervened,threw a curve ball and put a halt to my training just after my ppl. Because of the different life circumstances it caused me to reevaluate my goals and priorities and now I'm happy just keeping up to date with mortgage, bills, kids in school etc. and regardless of how much I wanted to fly for a living there's always some point in your day when you're back down on the ground but like others similar to myself that desire to fly hasn't gone away only now how I achieve that or as you put, scratch that itch has changed somewhat.. I build and fly RC aircraft, do flights on pc flightsim and make my own pc flightsim controls with the ultimate goal there of custom making my own combination plane/helicopter cockpit, and when the time is right, converting my PPL over to RAA (recreational aviation Australia) pilot certificate. I do have to count myself lucky though.. I always had the desire to be a pilot and I achieved that but just not to the level I had planned yet some have the burning desire to be pilots but are never able to even get close to it for one reason or another, so for what I achieved, I'm grateful. I will one day get back behind the controls
Dreams dashed ... 😂 I pretty much figured just about everything you said here, Mischa. I have zero desire to start at the bottom and work my way up again. I've already done it twice in my life. Besides that, I'd bankrupt myself trying to finance training. For me, it was more of a fantasy than a dream. Totally impractical for me, and I knew it. Maybe things will change farther down the line, but I'm nearing 50 now - that's why I bought a paramotor, to satisfy my desire to fly, and still remain financially solvent. 😊
Smitty Smithsonite this is not how it is everywhere, it’s just one mans opinion, and not a great one that makes me sad to here him dashing dreams that still can be made ! Nearing 50 dude you, we are still young enough to do anything 👍🏻
Hey Yellow (real name?), I always wanted to be a heli pilot but due to circumstances had to settle and become a surgeon. I’m 64 now and have started lessons on a Bell 47. Doing great and love it. Just a bucket list item to check off. Really enjoy your channel!
Alertness, awareness, reaction timing, eyesight clarity, limbs mobility, fingers dexterity, overall stamina, and full cognitive skills capacity is all you need. After seventy years of age for private piloting, anyone is a liability in any situation on land, on sea, or in the air. Regardless of fitness, the mind must be on the job, the head must be able to turn around and look over shoulders, if not, forget flying.
I’m 63 yoa, and I’ve always love to fly. In the Army I was a crew chief on a Huey but because of medical problems I couldn’t get my license so I just stopped trying. I’m now a war veteran and again after 10 hours of flight time I was told that I couldn’t get my license again because of the medication I’m on for PTSD. The passion to fly is still in me, and I found out about ultralight 103 and I’m making plans now to purchase a Composite fx XEL. Love your videos.
The title should have read, "Are you TOO OLD to have a helicopter pilot JOB." I am interested to know your opinion on if at 56 years old if I'm too old to fly helicopters privately. And how old should someone call it quits for private flying? I love your videos, BTW.
I was told at 36yrs old by the FAA that I was too old to be an controller. It's just a numbers game. I have seen individuals in their 40s with mental health decline. I've also seen 75-80yr olds with incredible skill and mental acuity. It's an INDIVIDUAL skills assessment not an age associated decision.
That's exactly the question I was going to ask! I am one of the "missed opportunity" guys....and.... I got the brutal half of the answer... I got addicted to helicopters in my late teens on a portable seismic survey crew where I got a good taste of flying in an old huey. About 15 unlogged hours. Once the pilot trusted me after showing me how to drive, he would fall asleep on the hour+ flight to the field where we would all pile out and go to work. I tried military, but my uncorrected vision is too poor for their rules... Family expenses and costs of flight school killed the other route for me... I never really thought I was going to get a helicopter job at over 60, so I guess the alternative for me it's just what I'm already doing- Flying fpv rc single rotor helicopters, simulators (at least it doesn't hurt much whenyou crash!), and working toward a place where I can get a private, or even a sport rotor license and build my own machine. As a former a&p and now a power generation Hydro electric slave, I think that's doable just to realize my lifelong dream. Thanks Misha, for the time you put in doing these videos and for caring enough to give the hard answers and for keeping everyone safe! You are blessed, and I see that you appreciate it! 👍 /Dave
With respect I’d ignore this video, it’s just one mans opinion, and not a good one ! You’re never to old to do anything, many of my friends trained for a flying career in there 50s and 20 years later still enjoying there career 👍🏻
@@copterkid6759 Agreed! My parents raised me to believe I can do anything I set my mind to. And I believed them enough to have an interesting life so far... I won't 'ignore' the video though. I trust that it's a realistic look at career possibilities for a large percentage of average, run of the mill dreamers, and not just fluffing for the exceptions to the rule. Mischa has given us his take on things and even set up a couple of alternate options or scenarios for the exceptions in good faith, but he has to tell it like it is for most, maybe not for all...
Great subject matter Mischa and good for you bringing up insurance as a consideration for an operator when hiring a new pilot. The insurance industry have provided Open Pilot Warranties to operators for several years now (decades), but the aviation insurance market is changing rapidly so the age of a pilot may become a real issue for some operators. That said, it’s less about age and more so experience (flight hours) where pilot restrictions may compromise insurance programs. I have several clients with pilots into their 70’s, but they’re all well experienced with proven track records. Great content as usual Mischa.
Brilliant breakdown and advice, thank you. As honest as it was, it wasn't as brutal and cutting as forum heli-pilots can be. I'm 33, in the UK and my youtube search history is overflowing with heli-vids. At 18 I wanted to join flight school, and had only done 1hr in an R22, but was hooked. I ended up going down a different career route but the dream of piloting has always tugged me back. Have a 6 week old now so things are even trickier. But who knows..
I plan on retiring from the Navy in less than 6 years at 41yrs old. I'll go to a university with an aviation program and then go from there. Insightful information and taken with a grain of salt. Love your videos!
Thanks for posting, like all of your vids, they are insightful and hold good educational values and advices (although, to be frank, I also dreaded what I was going to hear!). I got my PPL(H) back when I was 35 yo and haven't flown since, but the fire doesn't seem to extinguish with time (I believe like most people reading this..). I full intend to take the next steps now at 43 yo...
Hey Misha, Great video. I'm 52, not looking looking to fly professionally, period. Just looking to pursue a budding passion. Thanks so much for the insight & advise. Blessings to you & the family.
computer engineer here. 24 years old. could not join flight school when i was 20 years because i had to money. but, will make it up to becoming a private pilot one day... hopefully before 30 years. might be late for being commercial pilot, but flying an old cessna is all i have dreamt of now. thank you for your videos. sometime i get lost into your videos and feel like i am inside there flying 😂
I was a Software Engineer with Masters Degree practice and I pursued flying and can proudly say, I made it! Never look down on your passion and dreams!! Go Get it
@@Jas23380 man, i would love to connect with you and talk about a few things if that's okay. can you share your twitter, Linkedin, telegram or anything?
Thank you for this video. I found it very helpful and informative. I’m a 37 year old business owner. Back in 2006 I started the process of making my life long dream to become a professional helicopter pilot reality. After I spent all my savings on this dream I chickened out on making the full financial commitment to complete the process of becoming a helicopter pilot. Not a single day since then have I not regretted that choice! In the 15 + years since then Ive created a successful business that provides for myself, wife and 3 kids. My business is now at the phase that other larger companies are approaching me and wanting to buy me out. Now I’m faced with a huge dilemma…I now could pay cash for flight school but I’m getting close to being to old. That makes it pretty hard to decide what to do with my life. What decision should I make…Sell? and fulfill the dream that I can’t seem to let go. Or give it up…and continue to regret that decision every day of the week. This video addresses the ugly fact of aging and missed opportunities! Thank you for calling a spade a spade and giving advice that isn’t easy or pleasant to hear!
Depends on what your business is! If your in Mining for example sell, then go stake new claims with the heli! If your a private equity/high finance guy, sell and then focus on flying executive charter and use your wings to get it right back!
Great advice Mischa, it is far better to say it straight how it is as far as getting work with a company. This has totally made sense ! I am an oldie that is flying and love it, nor would I want a job flying commercial. At this age, we enjoy the freedom and the versatility. Does not mean we cannot help out in an emergency or be of use to the community - we certainly can. Probably rename this video to probability of being employed as a pilot. Oldies can still be useful in lots of ways. I am 53 years old (female). We can always create our own company and set the rules if we choose to go commercial, so no barriers to it. If you dont have the money - get some investors. All good !
What this man is saying is absolutely spot on. I've always wanted to fly helicopters but never had the opportunity to pursue it because "life" always got in the way in some way or another. At 42, I now have spent 15+ years in the oil and gas industry and have been paid very well over the years. A few years ago I checked into actually getting my commercial pilot license and going after my dream of flying a helicopter for a career. After doing tons of research and talking with a few people in the industry, I realized my dream of flying commercially wasn't going to happen. The instant drastic drop in pay was a major factor but the fact that it would take me 5+ years to even start making half of what I make now just didn't make financial sense. I will still pursue my dream of being a helicopter pilot, it will just be on the private level but I'll enjoy every second of it.
Yes Sir absolutly I totaly agree, yes I`m from Germany, I muved in Bell 47 - 1987 I was age 33 I was in my very best jears to learn helicopters ! Was thinking first Commercial Pilot but realy allso my Money was way to short for this, so I did this in a big 6 month inkl. Student Visa in US - after all it was the perfect time to do it. My Job was semi truck driving for a Living and never gave up ! All it workt out just fine, befor I did Skydiving so I kissed the air first !
I got my PPL Rotorcraft/Helicopter at age 68 with an intention of getting a CPL at some point in the future. No intention to ever work as a pilot again, just for the accomplishment and additional safety factor of the training. As a 22 year old the hardest part of learning to fly fixed wing was paying for it. Now paying for it is no problem but remembering I have a flying lesson at 1pm can be challenging. It would be interesting to know the age of the oldest CPL CANDIDATE in the USA.
I watched this video and read a lot of the comments. What people need to realize is that when someone who is sitting right in the heart of an industry is making observations and giving advice - it carries a LOT of weight. A lot more than some of you realize. You can't watch this video and conclude that anyone can do it at any age. There are always notable exceptions as this video admits. But what he's trying to do is bring back down to earth (no pun) people who think that they can pilot commercially at any age they want just by hard work and determination....there are limitations to what can be achieved in a lifetime folks. As one commenter noted, you can still get licensed at middle age or more and have lots of fun flying, so why add the burden of having to do it for clients - an astute observation. Keep it real everyone, nice video...
Again a good interesting video. Keep them coming. You shattered my dreams :) I'm only 60. Completely making sense. Now I have to buy my own and lease it back to you?
Oh this is heavy one to absorb. I am 50 years old and have been told all along that I was not too old. So now I am at a point where I need to step back and really do some thinking.
I'm 51 and thinking of getting a Commercial license. This is just one guys opinion. Some employers will see age as a benefit. You are more responsible, and have more life experience at an older age. Just because this guy runs his business a certain way, doesn't mean everyone does. I say go for it!! Money is the ONLY thing holding me back or I'd sign up tomorrow!
Thanks for a very honest and informative video! As a pilot, pushing 50, I was hoping you would talk a bit more about non-career helicopter pilot aspirations. There are many who want to know what age is appropriate to pursue a helicopter license or add-on rating. Helicopter flying requires certain skills that "older" people may feel are out of their reach. Perhaps you would consider an add-on to this video and talk a bit more about what age is acceptable for becoming a non-career helicopter pilot. Cheers!
This vid is a few years old I see, but I’m thankful I found this channel, this one was very helpful. Almost 45 and working on my private pilot (fixed wing) cert., very badly want to be an air ambulance pilot. Not sure that will work out for me, so vids like this are very helpful. Thank you!
great practical advice and i love the 'go fly 30 hrs a year' instead, i'm sure if you did a 1hr scenic every fortnight that would be largely enough of a handful to placate the itch for a week :)
People in their 60s-70s have experience! Flown in the service, they KNOW how to fly, they may need a refresher, in the end; they will fly circles around most 30 year olds.
Hi guys I got my commercial helicopter licence last year at the age of 52. The main reason I chose to do my commercial was, I like the idea of training to the higher standard particularly with helicopters. Also the flying school would not hire the helicopter out to me without a safety pilot until I had the equivalent number of hours as someone who has got his commercial. I do enjoy flying helicopters and at my age I’m not fussed about getting a flying job and having access to the flying schools helicopters and instructors that have a wealth of knowledge is a bonus.
This might sound strange for some to hear at first but as someone who will begin training for my commercial lessons this fall, I think it's great that a lot of people start out on the ground doing whatever the owners want them to do! At 19 I joined the air force (munitions job, totally unrelated to helicopters or flying), before they let me do pretty much anything after 8 weeks of training to handle munitions I had to finish what they call CDC's, which is pretty much continued training, you read books, study, take a few tests and then you're done and can be signed off to do certain tasks alone as long as your supervisors think you're capable, every career field in the air force has to do it. During that time I was scrubbing toilets, taking out the trash, checking out the vehicles and equipment for any problems, spray painting/labeling boxes, basically any menial task to keep me busy. Those kinds of jobs are great at bringing out the true colors in someone, especially if you're doing it for long enough!
I got my CPL(H) at the age of 28 in Florida, USA back in '98. I stopped flying after that after getting into other work to pay for those flight bills. (I passed the CFI written.) I enjoyed the training and the flying, but the spark to get me back into flying asap wasn't there. I wonder if the Cabri G2 had been my training helicopter (if it had been around) instead of the R22, maybe I would have been into it more. Now, coming up to the age of 55, getting a few hours in the Cabri G2 would be a bucket list thing for me. (Growing up fairly obsessed with helicopters, I felt a bit cheated to not have flown in a helicopter with a traditional cyclic.) I realize that if I still have some muscle memory after all these years, how complicated it might seem given the Cabri blades spin in the opposite direction to the R22. (cyclic/pedals) It's great to see people of various ages enjoy helicopters. As we age, we need to respect and maybe embrace potential limitations that come with aging. Edit: typo
I’m 43, and I have great passion towards aviation. My mission is about personal use & potentially work after retirement. Due to the fact that it sounds more challenging and less of personal use, I decided to switch to fixed wing so I can purchase a plane and use it personally. I would truly appreciate your inputs and opinion. I really enjoy your vids and wish I all the best…
So, I lasted about halfway, 67 learning and I can see many opportunities for a guy with my age and background to still fly even commercially. May not be all the glory jobs, but flying is flying and I not in it for the money, I've got my retirement, I'm in it to fly. i don't take "your to old" And by the way, I own my company and I still clean the restrooms, build the walls and smoke most of the young whippersnappers all day long. Kids to busy on their cells to pay attention. Their heads are in the clouds and we are not talking piloting clouds and I'd be scared to death to trust one as a pilot
Opps I hit the post button before I finished. ( maybe I am to old) I’ve read the comments below about guys over 70 learning to fly. I find your stories very inspiring ! What the heck…. We only live once! Thanks again for the information
Thank you so much for this Mischa; hard news for aging ears but I really appreciate the information and your candor. Excellent video. Love the channel. Cheers
Wow, you are never to old, sure tell them the pros and cons but let them decide, I have so many fellow pilots who trained in there late 40s into 50s and have started there career and are having the best time of there life. This video actually made me unsubscribe.
Here’s my experience for what it’s worth. I obtained my commercial helicopter add-on certificate in 1984 age 31. I did not fly helicopters again for 27 years except an occasional dual hour here and there. My employer, the US gov’t., obtained 2 surplus MD600N’s from the border patrol. I received 10 hours dual in R-22’s, 15 hours R-44, and 10 in the MD600N. I was able to successfully fly the 600 for research until we traded it for a newer R-44. As a low time helicopter pilot I flew very cautiously with the mindset of a student pilot.
Very cool, good advice to hear, I'm a 34 year old carpenter looking at changing things up and following the dream to get into flying helicopters. Going through the motions now and weighing up the Pros and cons and whether it is something that could realistically become a job in the future for the next 30 years. Appreciate the video and the advice, sounds like I still have a chance! "the mountain is steep" I have heard but a man with a purpose is a man who is content. Going to do a test flight experience later this month to really dive into it and see if this is something that is viable. Keep up the cool vids love your work! yeow
I left the military in 1993 (aged 38) after several yrs of rotary flying. When I left the military, my first priority was income and commercial pilot jobs were rare here in the UK then. I flew privately, both fixed and rotary occasionally until about 1999. My only regret was not holding out longer to try and get a commercial job. I miss flying, but hopefully I can fund one of my Grandchildren to learn.
I'm one of the very few people who appreciate truth for what it is, whether good or bad. Truth is its own value. I've been playing a lot of flight sim lately and the helicopters in VR are such a blast that I can't lie, it has inspired me to consider it. But at 57, the exact age you mention, you put a bullet of truthful reality in that fantasy. And that's fair. I wanted to know the truth and there it is, so be it. I thank you for the candid, honest information.
What about the retired person, financially stable, not looking to work in the commercial helicopter industry at all, but rather desires to obtain their helicopter ratings for pure enjoyment and because it has been a lifelong dream???
I'm currently 44 and hold a commercial that I achieved in 2009, was part way through CFII however due to DUII and going through alot of FAA hoops 2017 cleared to fly, currently 185hrs . I know Canada has different situation then America. I would sweep floors to fly. For me however raising family I havent been able to go back, wife is just into good paying job so it will take us a little longer to get finacially set. Passion is an understatement for me. You have given me lots of encouragement . thank you
I was 35 when I got my CPL(H) from VIH. couldn't find a job, Stayed a HD Mechanic, now retired 10 years from that. I've bought into a Tour Heli company in the states, I've owned over 15 helicopters over the last 22 years. Still have 2 right now, always buying and selling them, to pay for my hobby.
Stephen, when you were looking for a job back then when you were 35, did you look at any possible position anywhere in the world or only in your country?
Got my ppl when I was 17 and then night endorsement, all just for fun. Flew 150 hours taking relatives and friends here and there. Worked for a helicopter company mixing Agent Orange etc for a summer. We had 6 Jet Rangers and an A-Star 350-D I think it was and a lot of fun. Been with aviation companies most of my life in various capacities. Now I’m 62. So here I am enjoying your helicopter videos occasionally. I loved flying in helicopters and may see if I can take some lessons out there just for fun if that’s possible. I live in South Carolina and Nova Scotia and retired at age 58 and have lifetime flight benefits on almost every airline in the world. Traveled the world for 25 years. But helicopters are still the coolest flying to me. Very healthy. You teach people like me ever, Mischa? 😎
I'm 48, just flew for fun for about sixteen years (renting a 22) but now I wouldn't mind switching careers. With just under 800 hours the only job I'm "qualified" for (down here in the States) is giving rides in a 44,...which is fine, since I'd actually like to try that. My biggest obstacle though, is not age, but weight, as the vast majority of those jobs want pilots below 190 lbs, and I fly around 205. Sadly, its not as easy to lose weight (and keep it off) at 48 than it was at 28. :(
I am not in the old age demographic being just 38. I tried to start training last year but could not get through due to financial constraints. I still plan to do it someday, even though I have a good job and career in IT.
Not All of us want to be a commercial pilot. Some of us just like Flying for the enjoyment. I spent 33 years working for an Electric Utility, mostly as a Patrolman of the Grid System. Started out in Hughes 500's then MD-500's, AStar 350B2, & finally Eurocopter EC135's until I retired. I miss flying the most with retirement. I was one of the few that could eat a big breakfast and fly all day. I could use my laptop and read while flying and it never bothered me. At least half my fellow Linemen couldn't fly very long before getting sick. Pilots soon learned I was ok to fly with all day long. Many many times from before Sun Up to after Dark. I retired with a lot of hours. The Chef Pilot even took me to the HAI convention for my input when he decided to upgrade from Analog to Digital Instruments. Started navigating with Waypoints, then Loran, and finally with GPS. First time I asked pilot to meet me at a GPS position I used the Decimal system and found out our Helo's were still using GPS with Minutes & seconds. That's when he took me to the HAI Convention. I also wanted to be a useful member of the flight crew so took up navigation and radio communication. When I started bringing my Laptop that had 3D mapping software I had bought & installed. I used it to plot our route & show in Real Time our location. Boy did that instigate changes. Sure miss Flying!
Philip says thanks for the advice.philip is 57 and is in retirement. philip wants to do it for a hobby and if I got a bit of work from it all well and good.philip is interested in planes as well like the cirrus and the beach craft planes.philip would like to buy a helicopter but I think it is to late now I am retired.you and your team take care nice to see you looking well.phil.have a good Christmas pal.
So good to know this, great video as always, please keep them coming. Your videos among others have been a major anchor in keeping my dream alive. Now, I just need to figure out financing my CPL training
This is actually a good idea-and helpful-to pay for the private training and fulfill the dream, after all, it's about the flying itself with or without being commercial or private. Thanks for your thoughts and for the whole briefing. Very useful directions, instructions...
Very informative video. You talked about working for someone else. I am 55 years old. What if I want to get my CPL from you, buy an Airbus H135, and start my own for hire company. Am I too old? Or, is it up to the FAA doctors. Thanks.
Wow, I've read the comments and cant believe the ignorance I have read. I too wish I had the chance when younger to have obtained a chopper licence. I have been in many choppers since just a boy and even had the thrill of flying one as an adult - the fun factor is off the charts! The skill involved in flying an aircraft that continuously wants to tear itself apart is enormous. The concentration and constant corrections and always thinking of what will happen if the engine stalls, etc, etc, is something that a young minded quick thinking individual has way more control over than an older person - in my 53 year old personal opinion. Sure there are the exceptions to the rule but do you really want all that responsibility at an older age and like Mischa said will you be able to keep your medical to warrant flying at an older age. Keep safe and follow your dreams everyone.
I believe it comes down to vitality.. physically and mentally and having healthy love and enthusiasm for piloting. In addition to that, having the right professional attitude to keep training and getting better. Live, eat and sleep flying.. judge someone on the quality of their advice and not their age, as they will most likely be younger or the same age but, with far greater experience. That's the same approach with doing anything new in life. I'm from a business development background, specialised in marketing too.. so can bring extra value.. so bring your skills to the table too.
I’m a 51 year old dryland wheat farmer who has wanted to fly helicopters since I read “Chicken Hawk” in 1988. I can afford to buy one if I use it for spraying my fields, and all costs are tax deductible. My only concern is the elevated danger of flying full weight loads at ten feet off the ground over very hilly terrain, I farm in the Palouse country. No trees to worry about, but auto rotations in the shaded area of the height/velocity curve would be an ever present danger. A Hiller UH-12 or Bell 47 is in my price range, I’m just wondering if it’s too dangerous, as ground level application flights would be all I do with the helicopter if I decide to go all in. Someone talk some sense into me.
I have my own R44 actually more than one , I was trying to sell them as they all need some attention , I am over the whole flying thing after experiencing the worst of the industry. Should I just hang on and get the 12 year done in a few years ,fly it for 5 years and sell it then , I am not sure if that passion for flying will come back . I am also thinking this could be a great investment to cash in later or am I wrong ?
I fully agree with your saying. 25-35 year when entering for a CPL-H is in general the right age. I would also add to it that the older people get beyond 40-45, the harder it will be for the employer to shape them into the industry and the operators way of working, because life has already shaped most people to some level .. its not just salery-wise one at an older age would have to rewind the level of salery and start all over, but to some level also life experience to fit the new type of business they have entered. The old saying goes: You can't teach an old dog new tricks - lets be kind and alter that into: Its harder to teach an old dog new tricks.
I started flight school (H) when I was 35, sadly life got in the way and I wasn't able to finish. SE la vi. I'm now 75 but if Gods willing I will fly again, I'm smart enough to know I will never be able to fly commercially (at my current age) but who cares, I just like doing it. Just remember guys and gals it's not over until the fat lady sings, and she hasn't even started warming up. Keep the faith and stay strong, healthy, and wise. BTW I'm nothing special but I held my first hover at 3.5 hours. I loved it, still do deep down inside.
It makes sense in terms of being an employee for a company. But if you have that passion to fly, do it as a hobby. As long as your healthy, theres nothing stopping you.
Excellent discussion. When I was way younger and getting my Multi/IFR rating I briefly thought about getting into the swing wing scene... didn't happen but I sure enjoy living vicariously though your YT channel. :-)
Misha, you are right ON !! I know many people would like to hear a different answer, but finding a job as a starter above 45 is impossible. as Misha said, it is extremely difficult to get back and accept a very low salary, a complete return to uncertainty, a very low progression without the end of the tunnel. Yes, you could have exception, but they are not the norm. Also, We have a dream of flying but we have no clue of what is work in this industry and you could be very surprised and disappointed. I have seen guys tired of being in the bush after 2 or 3 years and looking for better very quickly, better that you don't always find. With age, you do not accept the same things. It is also an industry who has a lot of cycle, good and bad, if you start during a bad one, it is gone take a lot more years. Misha has a school, he coud tell you come and you will see, but at least , he is honest about the reality of our industry. If you are older, do it for pleasure !
Back in the late 70s when it cost about 10k for a commercial license in a 269, (the price of 2 new cars back then; it was never cheap), during the peak of the helicopter happy hunting ground LeGrande dam project in Que, the advice I got was "Don't bother; the bush is still chock-a-block full of Vietnam vet Huey drivers taking the more senior jobs and the entry level pool is just too big. Your chances of finding work are very slim". I knew several pilots who became licensed and ended up in other careers after they gave up. Then there was Canadore and similar flight schools, where the government was paying for the flying, with half of the 100 hrs on a 206! Getting into that course was like a small lottery prize. Pilots who did it the hard way really resented pilots from the government paid community college flight schools (gov't funding of the actual flying ended in the late 80s or early 90s for most). Even there I knew one Canadore grad from 1982 that finished up, with his 50hrs turbine, long-line and all that good stuff trained, ended up doing something else when he couldn't find a job. It didn't pay to be a member of the baby boom wave - too much competition.
Hey mate, I'm 44yo and looking at finally doing my PPL(H) here in Australia at cost of $25-$30K. I've been in nursing for 20yrs and now in the best financial position to do it. As a nurse I can earn $50-$60k AUS a year and if I went CPL(H) my wife and I thought I could still nurse agency (big demand here) and do seasonal work with fire service (10yrs service already as ground crew), the forestry dept or one of its contractors like Kestral (CA) based only 60kms away. This was a great video and thankful you did it because here in Australia I keep being told I'm TOO old.
It’s a bit true, starting late will be more difficult. But I really think that, if the passion is there, go for it ! And if no one wants to hire, create your own events. After all, you are a professional pilot. When I started, 32 years ago, my goal was professional helicopter pilot. I dreamed about that since I was 10 years old. Eventually became an helicopter pilot at 27. Unable to find a job at that time as all the companies were asking a minimum of 1.500 hrs (in 1989). I made my own events to build hours, and it worked...a bit, but not enough. But it’s in Belgium, we don’t use helicopters as much as in Canada or US. In order to survive, after 2 years of trying, I became an airplane pilot and found a job almost immediately. It’s been 30 years now, and still flying ...airplanes. With still the same « I missed something » kind of feeling. I flew recently a R44, after more than 10 years (almost 20 !). It came back in less than 10 minutes (the basics, at least) and I realized that I definitely missed something. But, really, if not a professional pilot, become a private helicopter pilot. Finally, flying for yourself is even better. In any case, helicopter is the BEST way to fly. And it is never to late. I will do it again. And I am 60 ! Still feeling gooooooood 😄 Take care !
Much like Jimmy’s comments below, I too would look to pursue a CPL as a means to continue challenging my grey matter and my motor skills in retirement. I have no aspirations of working in the industry given my age (60) and the info you kindly provided. Great reality check for some and confirmation for others like me. Just might be knocking on your door in the next 12 months :)
First of all , Congratulations to all my brothers and sisters over fifty for jumping in and living your dreams. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 I got my Commercial helicopter at 56 and my first job was flying as Co-pilot on an S-61 logging and flying Fires. Logging was not so much fun but flying fires was the time of my life. Anybody can do anything they truly want, live your dreams !!
And listen to Misha and make your decisions based on the reality out there for you. Good Luck 🚁🇨🇦
Yes sirrrrr. I truly believe that ... Don't let anyone ever tell you anything otherwise ..
Is there any information I can get
God bless you brother
You didn't need to do be an instructor for your first job?
@@staircapades hello Jason, I’m assuming your American because there you go directly from training to becoming an instructor and build your hours that way. Unfortunately in Canada it’s the opposite. Your not able to be an instructor till you have several thousand hours of experience, which makes sense. So the difficult part in Canada is finding that first job. Good luck , fly safe. 🚁🇨🇦
I’m 76 years old. I fly fixed wing Ag (18000 hrs) and I fly an R44 for the company. Age is a relative thing.
Your are a great example of living life to the full. Keep going as long as you can. NEVER GIVE IN.
im 62,and these youth dont want trespassers with the money to surpass them"too old at 45?"piss off,my grandad didnt loan me the cash at 18 to buy,i worked to buy mine,and,no, i wouldnt sweep floors to get there,but the industry sells dreams to youth,just like joe at buffalo airways and many more..well done to you sir.
Hell yah ....... Respect Sir
Fabulous ! I would fly with you anyday !
You are a true hero sir💯💪🏼
59 yrs old here, started flying helicopters off and on in 84. Life happened so i skipped many years before i got my Private in 2013. Just passed my Commercial written with a 98 score. Studying hard and getting ready for the check ride. Have a job waiting flying tours in Fl.. Never give up on your dream!!!!
I'd happily fly tours in Florida! I just turned 44, am i too old at this point to be thinking about starting all of this?
Started PPL (H) at age 60 - MUCH more difficult than fixed-wing when I was 19...but so worth it.
I am 70 years old and I am taking flying lessons. Congratulations for your programs. I have seen several of them and think you are very clear in your explanations. I agree completely with them if you are trying to make a career as a helicopter pilot, but that's not my objective. My instructor tells me to fill my hours in my logbook, but I tell him there is no point in doing so; I am too old to think about going in and renting a helicopter to go fly around by myself. The only thing I want is to have fun and fulfill the challenge of flying a helicopter while my health allows it.
respect.
Baller
I'm 62 and feel the same way. Just want to have fun and knock something off my bucket list. Hey, if I can do it and eventually make a buck with it then sure but that is not my goal. I just want to show up to the party in the ultimate toy!
Awesome !
I've been into hot rods n have built a few custom Harley's, I'm a gear head at heart. I have 20+ hours flying single engine Cessnas years ago. Now that I'm retired, n getting a pension check n have plenty of time to do whatever, I wanted to go back to school n go for a degree in Industrial Design, BUT?? Am I going back to work? No. So instead of spending money on more college semesters to gain a few more brain cells, I'd rather take helicopter flying lessons n learn to fly for fun n enjoy my senior years while I still can. And if I can make a few bucks on the side being a heli-pilot, why not? To all those who still can do it, Go for it! You only live once...
I appreciate your balanced approach to this subject. I gained my PPL (H) at age 29 years with two jet ratings and at that stage was fully engaged in a professional career. At age 40 I thought of progressing to CPL (H) with no particular goal for an aviation career but just greater confidence in piloting. The instructor gave me some good advice and I have no regrets in taking it. He said "why stuff up a perfectly good hobby". If you earn good money, can fly anytime you want and pick the perfect days etc, why would you want to hang around a hanger waiting for someone to turn up wanting to fly somewhere in poor weather to take a photo or something about as unfulfilling and feel the pressure to go because you need to fill your pay cheque. At 62 now, I still have a passion to fly, my focus is to maintain my income to support my hobby. For me it is still a perfectly good hobby for as long as my medical remains in order.
Too old to be a helicopter pilot ? HELL NO, if you can do it then do it, never give in. You may never fly commercially as a pilot but who cares, fly privately it is so much fun and you can still take your skills to many levels, I started at 49 don't regret any moment of it even if it is a little harder at this age, when CV-19 lockdown finishes I will take my final check ride test for PPL(H) and plan to keep going until my AME (air medical examiner) says no.
I’m 53 and started exactly where you are. You’re bang on. Life’s too short, live the dream!!
thats the spirit!! Never say Never. So much you can do flying private & enjoy!!
@@VividSolutions Micha said you could fly but may be not commercially.
Sure Michael, Mischa’s blog is absolutely spot-on too. Only thing he got wrong was the title, it should have read “Am I too old to make a living flying Helicoiters?”. (Sorry to criticise Mischa, love your channel, learnt loads!!). For me, heli flying costs a fortune and I’ll never have 1000’s of hours but it’s still the best and most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. Love it!! Like Sarah, I won’t stop until the AME nails me down!
@@VividSolutions my goal is supplemental income so if that means flying tours, shuttles, teaching... there are opportunities but they are not the same for everyone regardless of age
I got nervous reading the title. Thankful that you were just talking about "as a career" and not a physical capability. As a retiree, I assumed as long as my medical is valid, then I think the bucket list could still be fulfilled. If I have the financial means. I fly for fun and flying a helicopter sure looks like fun tremendously. Thanks for posting, stay healthy!
I am hoping the same thing, no desire to get a lic. but would love one day to go to BC and take a demo flight with Mischa (sorry if I butchered your name).
Jimmy Siu that’s what I did,bought a helicopter and love every minute!
Jimmy Siu there is a lot of ignorance in this video, career or private you are never to old, and if an instructor tells you that move on to a good one !! Do anything you want don’t even think about your age 👍🏻
@@copterkid6759 thanks a lot for the encouraging words. May be I won't become a helicopter pilot but I will definitely try. My goal is to hover one. That's on my bucket list.☺
I got my helicopter PPL add-on (USA) three weeks shy of my 70th birthday. I did it for recreation only, but if you are still able, age should not be a factor
So Cool !
That was not unexpected. Totally understand your point. But I'm STILL gonna do it. You have no idea how fantastic your videos and tutorials have been. I can't wait to start! Had another hour in a 44 a few weeks back, it was like seeing an old friend. Keep those videos comin' man! You're a rotocraft guru genius!!!
Hell yaaaa me too. Good for you!!
You know I've been thinking about this. I would actually argue the opposite of what Mischa is saying. How many 16,17,18,19,20,21 yr olds know what they REALLY want to do? I certainly didn't at that age. What are the chances a 40 year old is going to flake off on you? How do you know those kids aren't going to one day change their mind and say "Today I want to work in oil and gas. Maybe I'll go back to school and become a petroleum engineer"? What are the chances a 40 year old with kids, having dropped 70-80k is going to then want to drop being a pilot and pursue something else? I would say very low. Not only that but the mature adult has more skills to bring to the table. Perhaps management or something that may be of value in that regard. I would argue you would have a much higher rate of retaining people that would be considered mature post secondary adults specifically because they aren't in their early 20's. They are more settled down and less likely to flip flop careers. Just my 2 cents.
YES!!!! And we're more responsible!! I also need to add I drove multi million dollar vehicles loaded with passengers, if I could be trusted to do that in downtown Vancouver rush hour traffic, with people STANDING, there is no reason not to trust me to fly a few folks in a million dollar vehicle! And flying is SAFER! AND I started out in the job I was trained for, I didn't have to "work my way up" Drs don't come out of med school and start out scrubbing toilets do they?! Just my opinion
I agree. You don't have the life experience to know what you really want and usually at that age, you are more worried about a job with a focus on pay, to impress friends or family, etc as you don't have the experience to know better.
The sky is the limit. If you want to be a pilot for personal goals, you are never to old. Not everyone wants to fly for a career ,some people like me fly for pure satisfaction...bucket list goal 😀
I retired from my career. I was 64 when I added a private Helicopter rating to my Fixed wing/Instrument ticket ( about 1500 hrs fixed wing) I just passed my Commercial written before the plague hit. I will finish and hopefully be able to fly for firefighting or Angel Flight type work. I do not care about the pay; this is about the passion to fly and the discovery of how much fun and the utility of Rotorcraft . Ill bet I will fly and be valuable in my endeavor. Hell, the reward and 'fix' is doing the rating, everything after will be gravy.
Just finished my PPL at 55 years old, and it did make me feel like 20 again :) Age is not just a number, its in your head, so try to be in an age that make you experienced enough to make the right decisions in life, but young enough to make them reality....
I Love your channel and the videos you produce. I’m a 69 year old, non-current Private Pilot, who has always wanted to fly helicopters. I graduated from high school, just before the war in Vietnam ended and decided to attend college (Mining Engineering), to hopefully avert being drafted. At that time, almost all helicopter pilots came from the Army and private helicopter training was out of my financial reach. I earned my Fixed Wing PP license, while I was in college. After graduation, I worked in the Mining Industry for about 10 years, before I finally purchased a Cessna 172, with a Friend. We leased it to a Flying Club and I began working on my Instrument Rating. I passed the Instrument written exam, but my efforts to finish my training, fizzled, as I started a Family. I continued to fly my young family around the west, until the kids grew larger and we outgrew the weight capacity of the C172 and my budget tightened, as they continued their educations. So, I regrettably sold my plane and let my currency lapse. As I got older, I developed Type II Diabetes and was no longer able to qualify for an FAA Physical. So, I began building and flying a sophisticated Flight Simulator, where I continued my IFR training and dipped my toe into Helicopters, which, of course, I still Love. Watching your videos, I wondered if it would be possible to get a little training, with an instructor, like you, without having to qualify for a flight physical, fully realizing that it’s unlikely that I would ever be able to solo and get my official Helicopter Rating?
I’m 56 with 65 hrs fixed and now have 22 in R22/R44. I also have an A&P license with commercial experience. I’d be happy to finish my career as a flight instructor and later just ground. My sweet spot and if it doesn’t work out, I just do it recreationally. No worries, all good
39 and about to make the jump to start flying for a living. Need to go NOW though and not wait! thanks for the info!
Are you doing it?
Of course age is relative and influenced by numerous factors. I am 75 and still regularly fly my RV7 and C185. I recently completed a RotorWay Exec162 which I’m currently learning to fly. I have no illusion as to my capabilities but it is proving easier than I expected thanks in no small measure to a patient and encouraging instructor. My message to anybody toying with the idea is that you won’t know until you have given it a try for a couple of hours
Nobody wants to be told they're too old to start a dream career. That hurts....but gotta keep it real. Stubbornness really won't change the practical reality of the industry no matter how determined we might be. What we can change is that locked in mindset and shifting to a goal that's both attainable and satisfying. My personal experience is that a satisfying passionate hobby in retirement is far more rewarding than perpetually climbing a totem pole where you'll always be stepped over and most likely will never reach the top. Not trying to dash anyone's dream, but I urge guys in my age range (I'm 60) to assess their priorities at this stage in the game to see if there's any alternative viable path they might possibly find fulfilling.
I think you are speaking truth, Brother. I am 59 and reality of attaining commercial pilot work is slim. Better to fly for fun. I have private / instrument but never had the opportunity to go farther. Life is funny like that! Cheers...
Right on brah. I’m 69 retired 6 years ago then got into drones. Yeah not helos but satisfy my lust to be an 🦅 To pay for itself got my part 107 and now have a thriving business. I told my son after he graduated... forget your peers going o coll3ge. How many of them now have jobs in their chosen fields. Instead pursue your passion. Life is about LIVING not just existing to pay the bills. At 40 quit the corporate world and traveled the real world as a Master Scuba Instructor. Time of my freakin life. PYP
@@punapirate what is part 107?
@@gerardomontano3898 the new drone regulation from the FAA...
Great video, I’m now 55 years old living in the UK.. I know I’m too old to fly commercially but to learn to fly just for pleasure would be great.
Continental Europe is a beautiful place, can you imagine being able to fly your own helicopter in Europe for fun...
Ditto, I'm 54... Helicopters is an expensive passion project, try Gryocopters for fun and at our age they have similar flight capabilities, but far more affordable to get into and fly.
RPT I had a 65 year old man training to get his private helicopter licence in my class. That’s 10 years of flying for you guys, if the medical stays good
I started a few years ago at about aged 40......gave up purely as it’s just too expensive, I was paying £280 for an hours lesson
johnlds1965 , Now that’s a great idea... the only problem I have is the useful load of the Autgyro Cavalon’s. I’m 6’2” and a heavy weight boxer type.
Great video Misha! I was blessed!... I've got my CPL (FAA) and CFI at 38 years old. No Jobs as CFI, and I didn't want to stay around, to sweep the floor and clean toilets, so I went to Mexico looking for a job as helo pilot on tuna boat. After some months in the country, visiting all the companies who were in my area, I get hired, building hours and make money...I started flying with an old, rough bell47, before going on H500...It was 22 years ago...
Wow lol. And your still fyking man good on you dude. Ill be starting soon at the age of 43 but I dont look it . I hope I'm blessed like you.
Wow and your still flying lol. Hahhaha good on you dude. Ill be starting not far from you at 43. I hope I'm as blessed as you.
I almost got my Private helicopter license in the late '70s after discharge from the Marines. The cost vs benefit numbers quit adding up in 1980 when the rental price of the Hughes 300c hit $118 an hour AND I had zero prospects of landing a job as a helicopter pilot. Remember this was just after the Viet Nam conflict and the market was saturated with recently discharged, high hour ex-military turbine helicopter pilots. My prospects with 45 hours of piston helo time were grim at best. I certified private single-engine land shortly thereafter and flew quite regularly. I went on to a great paying and tremendously fulfilling career in Heavy Equipment and cranes in particular. Married '91, had kids, and bought a house in '93. It was the family's turn now, spending on myself was out of the picture. With new priorities, my flying days came to an end. I'll be 65 in a month, I've been happily retired since my 60'th birthday. The wife and I RV now, she hates flying, but the old itch has never quite gone away. When I hear "that" sound my eyes have always turned skyward. This one really struck a nerve so I felt the need to comment.
So far, the only school that is brutally honest with their school cost, expected time to completion, and job outlook.
Very wise and honest advice. You really hit the nail on the head. It is very difficult for most people to walk away from a good position and good money to start back at the bottom. And even harder to refrain from using our life experience when it’s really not necessary for the job. Great video. I’m 68 and retired. I loved flying when I was younger, but that’s in the past. Helicopters are a young man’s career. So are a lot of other jobs. I’m glad you stated the honest truth. I wish more people were like you.
I'm one of the fifty and over age bracket that's come to realize that it's just too late for me to consider a career in aviation. I was doing my fixed wing commercial pilot training in my early thirties but as it does with many people, life intervened,threw a curve ball and put a halt to my training just after my ppl. Because of the different life circumstances it caused me to reevaluate my goals and priorities and now I'm happy just keeping up to date with mortgage, bills, kids in school etc. and regardless of how much I wanted to fly for a living there's always some point in your day when you're back down on the ground but like others similar to myself that desire to fly hasn't gone away only now how I achieve that or as you put, scratch that itch has changed somewhat.. I build and fly RC aircraft, do flights on pc flightsim and make my own pc flightsim controls with the ultimate goal there of custom making my own combination plane/helicopter cockpit, and when the time is right, converting my PPL over to RAA (recreational aviation Australia) pilot certificate. I do have to count myself lucky though.. I always had the desire to be a pilot and I achieved that but just not to the level I had planned yet some have the burning desire to be pilots but are never able to even get close to it for one reason or another, so for what I achieved, I'm grateful. I will one day get back behind the controls
I'm 65 years old and i still dream to fly helicopter for my self only. With my own helicopter, i don't see any problem with that.
I just got my commercial in March '20 at 45
This gives me hope
You inspire me!!
Thank you Pat. I'm 43 now, so this gives me a glimmer of hope
Congrats man
Working now?? :)
Dreams dashed ... 😂
I pretty much figured just about everything you said here, Mischa. I have zero desire to start at the bottom and work my way up again. I've already done it twice in my life. Besides that, I'd bankrupt myself trying to finance training. For me, it was more of a fantasy than a dream. Totally impractical for me, and I knew it. Maybe things will change farther down the line, but I'm nearing 50 now - that's why I bought a paramotor, to satisfy my desire to fly, and still remain financially solvent. 😊
Smitty Smithsonite this is not how it is everywhere, it’s just one mans opinion, and not a great one that makes me sad to here him dashing dreams that still can be made ! Nearing 50 dude you, we are still young enough to do anything 👍🏻
Well, this made me feel a bit better. Just started my training for helicopters and I just turned 30.
Sometimes the truth hurts. Appreciate your honesty lad.
Hey Yellow (real name?), I always wanted to be a heli pilot but due to circumstances had to settle and become a surgeon. I’m 64 now and have started lessons on a Bell 47. Doing great and love it. Just a bucket list item to check off. Really enjoy your channel!
Alertness, awareness, reaction timing, eyesight clarity, limbs mobility, fingers dexterity, overall stamina, and full cognitive skills capacity is all you need.
After seventy years of age for private piloting, anyone is a liability in any situation on land, on sea, or in the air.
Regardless of fitness, the mind must be on the job, the head must be able to turn around and look over shoulders, if not, forget flying.
I’m 63 yoa, and I’ve always love to fly. In the Army I was a crew chief on a Huey but because of medical problems I couldn’t get my license so I just stopped trying. I’m now a war veteran and again after 10 hours of flight time I was told that I couldn’t get my license again because of the medication I’m on for PTSD. The passion to fly is still in me, and I found out about ultralight 103 and I’m making plans now to purchase a Composite fx XEL. Love your videos.
The title should have read, "Are you TOO OLD to have a helicopter pilot JOB." I am interested to know your opinion on if at 56 years old if I'm too old to fly helicopters privately. And how old should someone call it quits for private flying? I love your videos, BTW.
I was told at 36yrs old by the FAA that I was too old to be an controller. It's just a numbers game. I have seen individuals in their 40s with mental health decline. I've also seen 75-80yr olds with incredible skill and mental acuity.
It's an INDIVIDUAL skills assessment not an age associated decision.
That's exactly the question I was going to ask! I am one of the "missed opportunity" guys....and.... I got the brutal half of the answer...
I got addicted to helicopters in my late teens on a portable seismic survey crew where I got a good taste of flying in an old huey. About 15 unlogged hours. Once the pilot trusted me after showing me how to drive, he would fall asleep on the hour+ flight to the field where we would all pile out and go to work. I tried military, but my uncorrected vision is too poor for their rules... Family expenses and costs of flight school killed the other route for me...
I never really thought I was going to get a helicopter job at over 60, so I guess the alternative for me it's just what I'm already doing- Flying fpv rc single rotor helicopters, simulators (at least it doesn't hurt much whenyou crash!), and working toward a place where I can get a private, or even a sport rotor license and build my own machine. As a former a&p and now a power generation Hydro electric slave, I think that's doable just to realize my lifelong dream.
Thanks Misha, for the time you put in doing these videos and for caring enough to give the hard answers and for keeping everyone safe! You are blessed, and I see that you appreciate it! 👍 /Dave
With respect I’d ignore this video, it’s just one mans opinion, and not a good one ! You’re never to old to do anything, many of my friends trained for a flying career in there 50s and 20 years later still enjoying there career 👍🏻
@@copterkid6759 Agreed! My parents raised me to believe I can do anything I set my mind to. And I believed them enough to have an interesting life so far...
I won't 'ignore' the video though. I trust that it's a realistic look at career possibilities for a large percentage of average, run of the mill dreamers, and not just fluffing for the exceptions to the rule. Mischa has given us his take on things and even set up a couple of alternate options or scenarios for the exceptions in good faith, but he has to tell it like it is for most, maybe not for all...
@@copterkid6759 I'm 43 so I fall into that greyish area before 45 that he was talking about. I will admit it kinda bummed me out a bit
Great subject matter Mischa and good for you bringing up insurance as a consideration for an operator when hiring a new pilot. The insurance industry have provided Open Pilot Warranties to operators for several years now (decades), but the aviation insurance market is changing rapidly so the age of a pilot may become a real issue for some operators. That said, it’s less about age and more so experience (flight hours) where pilot restrictions may compromise insurance programs. I have several clients with pilots into their 70’s, but they’re all well experienced with proven track records. Great content as usual Mischa.
Brilliant breakdown and advice, thank you. As honest as it was, it wasn't as brutal and cutting as forum heli-pilots can be. I'm 33, in the UK and my youtube search history is overflowing with heli-vids. At 18 I wanted to join flight school, and had only done 1hr in an R22, but was hooked. I ended up going down a different career route but the dream of piloting has always tugged me back. Have a 6 week old now so things are even trickier. But who knows..
I plan on retiring from the Navy in less than 6 years at 41yrs old. I'll go to a university with an aviation program and then go from there. Insightful information and taken with a grain of salt. Love your videos!
Kevin Abney I’m curious since I’m really pondering this path. I have 8 months before I retire and I’m 38. We shall see what comes of this passion.
@@uglyrider1 what did you decide now that you’re retired?
Thanks for posting, like all of your vids, they are insightful and hold good educational values and advices (although, to be frank, I also dreaded what I was going to hear!). I got my PPL(H) back when I was 35 yo and haven't flown since, but the fire doesn't seem to extinguish with time (I believe like most people reading this..). I full intend to take the next steps now at 43 yo...
Hey Misha, Great video. I'm 52, not looking looking to fly professionally, period. Just looking to pursue a budding passion. Thanks so much for the insight & advise. Blessings to you & the family.
computer engineer here. 24 years old. could not join flight school when i was 20 years because i had to money. but, will make it up to becoming a private pilot one day... hopefully before 30 years. might be late for being commercial pilot, but flying an old cessna is all i have dreamt of now.
thank you for your videos. sometime i get lost into your videos and feel like i am inside there flying 😂
I was a Software Engineer with Masters Degree practice and I pursued flying and can proudly say, I made it!
Never look down on your passion and dreams!! Go Get it
@@Jas23380 man, i would love to connect with you and talk about a few things if that's okay. can you share your twitter, Linkedin, telegram or anything?
Thank you for this video. I found it very helpful and informative.
I’m a 37 year old business owner. Back in 2006 I started the process of making my life long dream to become a professional helicopter pilot reality. After I spent all my savings on this dream I chickened out on making the full financial commitment to complete the process of becoming a helicopter pilot.
Not a single day since then have I not regretted that choice! In the
15 + years since then Ive created a successful business that provides for myself, wife and 3 kids. My business is now at the phase that other larger companies are approaching me and wanting to buy me out.
Now I’m faced with a huge dilemma…I now could pay cash for flight school but I’m getting close to being to old. That makes it pretty hard to decide what to do with my life. What decision should I make…Sell? and fulfill the dream that I can’t seem to let go. Or give it up…and continue to regret that decision every day of the week.
This video addresses the ugly fact of aging and missed opportunities! Thank you for calling a spade a spade and giving advice that isn’t easy or pleasant to hear!
Depends on what your business is! If your in Mining for example sell, then go stake new claims with the heli! If your a private equity/high finance guy, sell and then focus on flying executive charter and use your wings to get it right back!
Great advice Mischa, it is far better to say it straight how it is as far as getting work with a company. This has totally made sense ! I am an oldie that is flying and love it, nor would I want a job flying commercial. At this age, we enjoy the freedom and the versatility. Does not mean we cannot help out in an emergency or be of use to the community - we certainly can. Probably rename this video to probability of being employed as a pilot. Oldies can still be useful in lots of ways. I am 53 years old (female). We can always create our own company and set the rules if we choose to go commercial, so no barriers to it. If you dont have the money - get some investors. All good !
What this man is saying is absolutely spot on. I've always wanted to fly helicopters but never had the opportunity to pursue it because "life" always got in the way in some way or another. At 42, I now have spent 15+ years in the oil and gas industry and have been paid very well over the years. A few years ago I checked into actually getting my commercial pilot license and going after my dream of flying a helicopter for a career. After doing tons of research and talking with a few people in the industry, I realized my dream of flying commercially wasn't going to happen. The instant drastic drop in pay was a major factor but the fact that it would take me 5+ years to even start making half of what I make now just didn't make financial sense. I will still pursue my dream of being a helicopter pilot, it will just be on the private level but I'll enjoy every second of it.
Yes Sir absolutly I totaly agree, yes I`m from Germany, I muved in Bell 47 - 1987 I was age 33 I was in my very best jears to learn helicopters ! Was thinking first Commercial Pilot but realy allso my Money was way to short for this, so I did this in a big 6 month inkl. Student Visa in US - after all it was the perfect time to do it. My Job was semi truck driving for a Living and never gave up ! All it workt out just fine, befor I did Skydiving so I kissed the air first !
I got my PPL Rotorcraft/Helicopter at age 68 with an intention of getting a CPL at some point in the future. No intention to ever work as a pilot again, just for the accomplishment and additional safety factor of the training. As a 22 year old the hardest part of learning to fly fixed wing was paying for it. Now paying for it is no problem but remembering I have a flying lesson at 1pm can be challenging. It would be interesting to know the age of the oldest CPL CANDIDATE in the USA.
I watched this video and read a lot of the comments. What people need to realize is that when someone who is sitting right in the heart of an industry is making observations and giving advice - it carries a LOT of weight. A lot more than some of you realize. You can't watch this video and conclude that anyone can do it at any age. There are always notable exceptions as this video admits. But what he's trying to do is bring back down to earth (no pun) people who think that they can pilot commercially at any age they want just by hard work and determination....there are limitations to what can be achieved in a lifetime folks. As one commenter noted, you can still get licensed at middle age or more and have lots of fun flying, so why add the burden of having to do it for clients - an astute observation. Keep it real everyone, nice video...
Thanks! I should be studying for Uni right now, but this was way more inspiring :D
I'm a bricklayer at 37 with some inheritance.... argh the temptation is real
Again a good interesting video. Keep them coming. You shattered my dreams :) I'm only 60. Completely making sense. Now I have to buy my own and lease it back to you?
Great video Mischa! I totally agree with all your points. 👍
Oh this is heavy one to absorb. I am 50 years old and have been told all along that I was not too old. So now I am at a point where I need to step back and really do some thinking.
take no notice,its an opinion
I'm 51 and thinking of getting a Commercial license. This is just one guys opinion. Some employers will see age as a benefit. You are more responsible, and have more life experience at an older age. Just because this guy runs his business a certain way, doesn't mean everyone does. I say go for it!! Money is the ONLY thing holding me back or I'd sign up tomorrow!
Schools want money and most will say "oh no your not too old"
I’m 29 Iv had my license for two years and still haven’t landed a job, not for lack of trying but I don’t think I ever give up looking.
Thanks for posting. As a 57 yr old with " the dream", it was goods to see it from the perspective of the employer .
This is just one employer. GO FOR IT!
Thanks for a very honest and informative video! As a pilot, pushing 50, I was hoping you would talk a bit more about non-career helicopter pilot aspirations. There are many who want to know what age is appropriate to pursue a helicopter license or add-on rating. Helicopter flying requires certain skills that "older" people may feel are out of their reach. Perhaps you would consider an add-on to this video and talk a bit more about what age is acceptable for becoming a non-career helicopter pilot. Cheers!
This vid is a few years old I see, but I’m thankful I found this channel, this one was very helpful. Almost 45 and working on my private pilot (fixed wing) cert., very badly want to be an air ambulance pilot. Not sure that will work out for me, so vids like this are very helpful. Thank you!
Side bar here, I held my first hover at 3.5 hours. I'm nothing special but I love it, deep down inside I still do.
great practical advice and i love the 'go fly 30 hrs a year' instead, i'm sure if you did a 1hr scenic every fortnight that would be largely enough of a handful to placate the itch for a week :)
People in their 60s-70s have experience! Flown in the service, they KNOW how to fly, they may need a refresher, in the end; they will fly circles around most 30 year olds.
Hi guys I got my commercial helicopter licence last year at the age of 52. The main reason I chose to do my commercial was, I like the idea of training to the higher standard particularly with helicopters. Also the flying school would not hire the helicopter out to me without a safety pilot until I had the equivalent number of hours as someone who has got his commercial. I do enjoy flying helicopters and at my age I’m not fussed about getting a flying job and having access to the flying schools helicopters and instructors that have a wealth of knowledge is a bonus.
This might sound strange for some to hear at first but as someone who will begin training for my commercial lessons this fall, I think it's great that a lot of people start out on the ground doing whatever the owners want them to do! At 19 I joined the air force (munitions job, totally unrelated to helicopters or flying), before they let me do pretty much anything after 8 weeks of training to handle munitions I had to finish what they call CDC's, which is pretty much continued training, you read books, study, take a few tests and then you're done and can be signed off to do certain tasks alone as long as your supervisors think you're capable, every career field in the air force has to do it. During that time I was scrubbing toilets, taking out the trash, checking out the vehicles and equipment for any problems, spray painting/labeling boxes, basically any menial task to keep me busy. Those kinds of jobs are great at bringing out the true colors in someone, especially if you're doing it for long enough!
I got my CPL(H) at the age of 28 in Florida, USA back in '98. I stopped flying after that after getting into other work to pay for those flight bills. (I passed the CFI written.) I enjoyed the training and the flying, but the spark to get me back into flying asap wasn't there. I wonder if the Cabri G2 had been my training helicopter (if it had been around) instead of the R22, maybe I would have been into it more. Now, coming up to the age of 55, getting a few hours in the Cabri G2 would be a bucket list thing for me.
(Growing up fairly obsessed with helicopters, I felt a bit cheated to not have flown in a helicopter with a traditional cyclic.) I realize that if I still have some muscle memory after all these years, how complicated it might seem given the Cabri blades spin in the opposite direction to the R22. (cyclic/pedals)
It's great to see people of various ages enjoy helicopters. As we age, we need to respect and maybe embrace potential limitations that come with aging.
Edit: typo
I’m 43, and I have great passion towards aviation. My mission is about personal use & potentially work after retirement. Due to the fact that it sounds more challenging and less of personal use, I decided to switch to fixed wing so I can purchase a plane and use it personally.
I would truly appreciate your inputs and opinion.
I really enjoy your vids and wish I all the best…
Great advice, extremely practical and helpful for someone thinking pursuing a second career with helicopters
So, I lasted about halfway, 67 learning and I can see many opportunities for a guy with my age and background to still fly even commercially. May not be all the glory jobs, but flying is flying and I not in it for the money, I've got my retirement, I'm in it to fly. i don't take "your to old" And by the way, I own my company and I still clean the restrooms, build the walls and smoke most of the young whippersnappers all day long. Kids to busy on their cells to pay attention. Their heads are in the clouds and we are not talking piloting clouds and I'd be scared to death to trust one as a pilot
Opps I hit the post button before I finished. ( maybe I am to old)
I’ve read the comments below about guys over 70 learning to fly.
I find your stories very inspiring !
What the heck…. We only live once!
Thanks again for the information
Thank you so much for this Mischa; hard news for aging ears but I really appreciate the information and your candor. Excellent video. Love the channel. Cheers
Wow, you are never to old, sure tell them the pros and cons but let them decide, I have so many fellow pilots who trained in there late 40s into 50s and have started there career and are having the best time of there life. This video actually made me unsubscribe.
Funny story video isn't about the old person not liking it. It's about why it puts a company in a bad position
Here’s my experience for what it’s worth. I obtained my commercial helicopter add-on certificate in 1984 age 31. I did not fly helicopters again for 27 years except an occasional dual hour here and there. My employer, the US gov’t., obtained 2 surplus MD600N’s from the border patrol. I received 10 hours dual in R-22’s, 15 hours R-44, and 10 in the MD600N. I was able to successfully fly the 600 for research until we traded it for a newer R-44. As a low time helicopter pilot I flew very cautiously with the mindset of a student pilot.
Very cool, good advice to hear, I'm a 34 year old carpenter looking at changing things up and following the dream to get into flying helicopters. Going through the motions now and weighing up the Pros and cons and whether it is something that could realistically become a job in the future for the next 30 years. Appreciate the video and the advice, sounds like I still have a chance! "the mountain is steep" I have heard but a man with a purpose is a man who is content. Going to do a test flight experience later this month to really dive into it and see if this is something that is viable. Keep up the cool vids love your work! yeow
I left the military in 1993 (aged 38) after several yrs of rotary flying. When I left the military, my first priority was income and commercial pilot jobs were rare here in the UK then. I flew privately, both fixed and rotary occasionally until about 1999. My only regret was not holding out longer to try and get a commercial job. I miss flying, but hopefully I can fund one of my Grandchildren to learn.
I'm one of the very few people who appreciate truth for what it is, whether good or bad. Truth is its own value. I've been playing a lot of flight sim lately and the helicopters in VR are such a blast that I can't lie, it has inspired me to consider it. But at 57, the exact age you mention, you put a bullet of truthful reality in that fantasy. And that's fair. I wanted to know the truth and there it is, so be it. I thank you for the candid, honest information.
What about the retired person, financially stable, not looking to work in the commercial helicopter industry at all, but rather desires to obtain their helicopter ratings for pure enjoyment and because it has been a lifelong dream???
I'm currently 44 and hold a commercial that I achieved in 2009, was part way through CFII however due to DUII and going through alot of FAA hoops 2017 cleared to fly, currently 185hrs . I know Canada has different situation then America. I would sweep floors to fly. For me however raising family I havent been able to go back, wife is just into good paying job so it will take us a little longer to get finacially set. Passion is an understatement for me. You have given me lots of encouragement . thank you
I was 35 when I got my CPL(H) from VIH. couldn't find a job, Stayed a HD Mechanic, now retired 10 years from that. I've bought into a Tour Heli company in the states, I've owned over 15 helicopters over the last 22 years. Still have 2 right now, always buying and selling them, to pay for my hobby.
Stephen, when you were looking for a job back then when you were 35, did you look at any possible position anywhere in the world or only in your country?
Got my ppl when I was 17 and then night endorsement, all just for fun. Flew 150 hours taking relatives and friends here and there. Worked for a helicopter company mixing Agent Orange etc for a summer. We had 6 Jet Rangers and an A-Star 350-D I think it was and a lot of fun. Been with aviation companies most of my life in various capacities. Now I’m 62. So here I am enjoying your helicopter videos occasionally. I loved flying in helicopters and may see if I can take some lessons out there just for fun if that’s possible. I live in South Carolina and Nova Scotia and retired at age 58 and have lifetime flight benefits on almost every airline in the world. Traveled the world for 25 years. But helicopters are still the coolest flying to me. Very healthy. You teach people like me ever, Mischa? 😎
I'm 48, just flew for fun for about sixteen years (renting a 22) but now I wouldn't mind switching careers. With just under 800 hours the only job I'm "qualified" for (down here in the States) is giving rides in a 44,...which is fine, since I'd actually like to try that.
My biggest obstacle though, is not age, but weight, as the vast majority of those jobs want pilots below 190 lbs, and I fly around 205. Sadly, its not as easy to lose weight (and keep it off) at 48 than it was at 28. :(
I am not in the old age demographic being just 38. I tried to start training last year but could not get through due to financial constraints. I still plan to do it someday, even though I have a good job and career in IT.
Not All of us want to be a commercial pilot. Some of us just like Flying for the enjoyment. I spent 33 years working for an Electric Utility, mostly as a Patrolman of the Grid System. Started out in Hughes 500's then MD-500's, AStar 350B2, & finally Eurocopter EC135's until I retired. I miss flying the most with retirement. I was one of the few that could eat a big breakfast and fly all day. I could use my laptop and read while flying and it never bothered me. At least half my fellow Linemen couldn't fly very long before getting sick. Pilots soon learned I was ok to fly with all day long. Many many times from before Sun Up to after Dark. I retired with a lot of hours. The Chef Pilot even took me to the HAI convention for my input when he decided to upgrade from Analog to Digital Instruments. Started navigating with Waypoints, then Loran, and finally with GPS. First time I asked pilot to meet me at a GPS position I used the Decimal system and found out our Helo's were still using GPS with Minutes & seconds. That's when he took me to the HAI Convention. I also wanted to be a useful member of the flight crew so took up navigation and radio communication. When I started bringing my Laptop that had 3D mapping software I had bought & installed. I used it to plot our route & show in Real Time our location. Boy did that instigate changes. Sure miss Flying!
These comments are so inspiring thank you 🌹
Philip says thanks for the advice.philip is 57 and is in retirement. philip wants to do it for a hobby and if I got a bit of work from it all well and good.philip is interested in planes as well like the cirrus and the beach craft planes.philip would like to buy a helicopter but I think it is to late now I am retired.you and your team take care nice to see you looking well.phil.have a good Christmas pal.
So good to know this, great video as always, please keep them coming. Your videos among others have been a major anchor in keeping my dream alive. Now, I just need to figure out financing my CPL training
This is actually a good idea-and helpful-to pay for the private training and fulfill the dream, after all, it's about the flying itself with or without being commercial or private. Thanks for your thoughts and for the whole briefing. Very useful directions, instructions...
Very informative video.
You talked about working for someone else.
I am 55 years old.
What if I want to get my CPL from you, buy an Airbus H135, and start my own for hire company. Am I too old? Or, is it up to the FAA doctors.
Thanks.
navy93 yes you could do that. But starting your own may not be very easy with low hours. But definitely worth a shot.
@navy93. Where are you located? Email me, joey@amarohelicopters.com
@@PilotYellow Thanks.
Wow, I've read the comments and cant believe the ignorance I have read.
I too wish I had the chance when younger to have obtained a chopper licence.
I have been in many choppers since just a boy and even had the thrill of flying one as an adult - the fun factor is off the charts!
The skill involved in flying an aircraft that continuously wants to tear itself apart is enormous.
The concentration and constant corrections and always thinking of what will happen if the engine stalls, etc, etc, is something that a young minded quick thinking individual has way more control over than an older person - in my 53 year old personal opinion.
Sure there are the exceptions to the rule but do you really want all that responsibility at an older age and like Mischa said will you be able to keep your medical to warrant flying at an older age.
Keep safe and follow your dreams everyone.
Love how straight up and open these videos are.
I believe it comes down to vitality.. physically and mentally and having healthy love and enthusiasm for piloting. In addition to that, having the right professional attitude to keep training and getting better. Live, eat and sleep flying.. judge someone on the quality of their advice and not their age, as they will most likely be younger or the same age but, with far greater experience. That's the same approach with doing anything new in life.
I'm from a business development background, specialised in marketing too.. so can bring extra value.. so bring your skills to the table too.
I’m a 51 year old dryland wheat farmer who has wanted to fly helicopters since I read “Chicken Hawk” in 1988. I can afford to buy one if I use it for spraying my fields, and all costs are tax deductible. My only concern is the elevated danger of flying full weight loads at ten feet off the ground over very hilly terrain, I farm in the Palouse country. No trees to worry about, but auto rotations in the shaded area of the height/velocity curve would be an ever present danger. A Hiller UH-12 or Bell 47 is in my price range, I’m just wondering if it’s too dangerous, as ground level application flights would be all I do with the helicopter if I decide to go all in.
Someone talk some sense into me.
I have my own R44 actually more than one , I was trying to sell them as they all need some attention , I am over the whole flying thing after experiencing the worst of the industry. Should I just hang on and get the 12 year done in a few years ,fly it for 5 years and sell it then , I am not sure if that passion for flying will come back . I am also thinking this could be a great investment to cash in later or am I wrong ?
I fully agree with your saying. 25-35 year when entering for a CPL-H is in general the right age. I would also add to it that the older people get beyond 40-45, the harder it will be for the employer to shape them into the industry and the operators way of working, because life has already shaped most people to some level .. its not just salery-wise one at an older age would have to rewind the level of salery and start all over, but to some level also life experience to fit the new type of business they have entered.
The old saying goes: You can't teach an old dog new tricks - lets be kind and alter that into: Its harder to teach an old dog new tricks.
I started flight school (H) when I was 35, sadly life got in the way and I wasn't able to finish. SE la vi. I'm now 75 but if Gods willing I will fly again, I'm smart enough to know I will never be able to fly commercially (at my current age) but who cares, I just like doing it. Just remember guys and gals it's not over until the fat lady sings, and she hasn't even started warming up. Keep the faith and stay strong, healthy, and wise. BTW I'm nothing special but I held my first hover at 3.5 hours. I loved it, still do deep down inside.
It makes sense in terms of being an employee for a company. But if you have that passion to fly, do it as a hobby. As long as your healthy, theres nothing stopping you.
Excellent discussion. When I was way younger and getting my Multi/IFR rating I briefly thought about getting into the swing wing scene... didn't happen but I sure enjoy living vicariously though your YT channel. :-)
Misha, you are right ON !! I know many people would like to hear a different answer, but finding a job as a starter above 45 is impossible. as Misha said, it is extremely difficult to get back and accept a very low salary, a complete return to uncertainty, a very low progression without the end of the tunnel. Yes, you could have exception, but they are not the norm. Also, We have a dream of flying but we have no clue of what is work in this industry and you could be very surprised and disappointed. I have seen guys tired of being in the bush after 2 or 3 years and looking for better very quickly, better that you don't always find. With age, you do not accept the same things. It is also an industry who has a lot of cycle, good and bad, if you start during a bad one, it is gone take a lot more years. Misha has a school, he coud tell you come and you will see, but at least , he is honest about the reality of our industry. If you are older, do it for pleasure !
Good stuff to know! Now I feel better informed.thanks
Back in the late 70s when it cost about 10k for a commercial license in a 269, (the price of 2 new cars back then; it was never cheap), during the peak of the helicopter happy hunting ground LeGrande dam project in Que, the advice I got was "Don't bother; the bush is still chock-a-block full of Vietnam vet Huey drivers taking the more senior jobs and the entry level pool is just too big. Your chances of finding work are very slim". I knew several pilots who became licensed and ended up in other careers after they gave up. Then there was Canadore and similar flight schools, where the government was paying for the flying, with half of the 100 hrs on a 206! Getting into that course was like a small lottery prize. Pilots who did it the hard way really resented pilots from the government paid community college flight schools (gov't funding of the actual flying ended in the late 80s or early 90s for most). Even there I knew one Canadore grad from 1982 that finished up, with his 50hrs turbine, long-line and all that good stuff trained, ended up doing something else when he couldn't find a job. It didn't pay to be a member of the baby boom wave - too much competition.
Hey mate, I'm 44yo and looking at finally doing my PPL(H) here in Australia at cost of $25-$30K. I've been in nursing for 20yrs and now in the best financial position to do it.
As a nurse I can earn $50-$60k AUS a year and if I went CPL(H) my wife and I thought I could still nurse agency (big demand here) and do seasonal work with fire service (10yrs service already as ground crew), the forestry dept or one of its contractors like Kestral (CA) based only 60kms away.
This was a great video and thankful you did it because here in Australia I keep being told I'm TOO old.
It’s a bit true, starting late will be more difficult. But I really think that, if the passion is there, go for it ! And if no one wants to hire, create your own events. After all, you are a professional pilot.
When I started, 32 years ago, my goal was professional helicopter pilot. I dreamed about that since I was 10 years old. Eventually became an helicopter pilot at 27. Unable to find a job at that time as all the companies were asking a minimum of 1.500 hrs (in 1989). I made my own events to build hours, and it worked...a bit, but not enough. But it’s in Belgium, we don’t use helicopters as much as in Canada or US.
In order to survive, after 2 years of trying, I became an airplane pilot and found a job almost immediately. It’s been 30 years now, and still flying ...airplanes.
With still the same « I missed something » kind of feeling.
I flew recently a R44, after more than 10 years (almost 20 !). It came back in less than 10 minutes (the basics, at least) and I realized that I definitely missed something.
But, really, if not a professional pilot, become a private helicopter pilot. Finally, flying for yourself is even better.
In any case, helicopter is the BEST way to fly.
And it is never to late.
I will do it again. And I am 60 ! Still feeling gooooooood 😄
Take care !
Much like Jimmy’s comments below, I too would look to pursue a CPL as a means to continue challenging my grey matter and my motor skills in retirement. I have no aspirations of working in the industry given my age (60) and the info you kindly provided. Great reality check for some and confirmation for others like me. Just might be knocking on your door in the next 12 months :)