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30 November 2009
29 November 2009
toby gets his cplh!
Congratulations and well done to Toby on passing his flight test this month. You've worked incredibly hard and the team at Beckers wish you a safe, happy and exciting future in the skies. Good luck Toby ... we'll miss you and your skateboard!
21 October 2009
student profile: geoff shaw
Age
32 years
From where?
Brisbane, Australia
Why fly?
I’ve always been interested in aviation. The first thing I ever remember wanting to do was be a Commercial Airline Pilot but shelved that idea after getting airsick in 4 out of 5 light aircraft flights. My interest in helicopters started with a joy flight at SeaWorld as a young teenager. I just loved the versatility of helicopters and the way they flew. I’ve also never been airsick in a helicopter. Around 8 more joy flights over the years cemented a love of helicopters. It just took me a long time to finally decide to do my licence (with a push from my wife).
Why train at Beckers?
I looked into all the helicopter training schools in south-east Queensland and visited a couple of them before deciding to train with Beckers. I knew I wanted to train in a Robinson helicopter as that was the type I would most likely end up flying initially. Beckers also do some other operations that may give you the opportunity to ride along in other helicopter types or gain experience as ground crew for sling load or joyflight operations. Other factors for me were having in house theory and on-site maintenance. The biggest deciding factor though was the friendly atmosphere. You’re really made to feel welcome and like part of the Beckers family – even when just visiting.
What licence?
105hr CPL(H) with 85hrs R22 and 20hrs R44.
Thoughts on theory?
I’ve found in-house classroom theory to be the way to go. Some schools use external theory providers for self-study or classroom theory. Beckers in-house classroom theory is fantastic. The theory manuals are great and the theory instructor is fantastic with excellent tips, explanations and the patience of a saint. Doing the theory in-house also means the opportunity to go out to the hanger to look at the aircraft and also talk to the engineers and help with maintenance, which all helps with understanding.
Biggest challenge in theory?
The biggest challenge in theory for me was staying focused and motivated through Air Law, as it is probably the driest subject of the lot. It is also a very intensive subject with long revision tests for homework. I found through all the subjects that there is plenty of help available in class and if you put in the work it will usually pay off in the results. The break between theory blocks also helps as it gives a chance to do some more flying training and remember why you’re doing this in the first place.
Tips on theory?
The more pre-reading you can do prior to coming to theory class, the better. Reading all the theory manuals at least once before coming to class gave me some level of knowledge to build on right from the start. Even doing things like practicing reading aviation weather forecasts and listening to aviation radio calls on a scanner can be a big help when it comes time to do those things yourself.
Thoughts on Flight Ops?
The flying training is fantastic. After all, the flying is the reason we want to train in the first place. Flying a helicopter is challenging, rewarding, fun and exciting. After loving helicopters for so long, when you first go solo and the realisation hits that “hey, I can actually fly a helicopter!” it’s a fantastic feeling. The first few weeks of flying are really intensive. You come back after a flight of around an hour feeling totally drained. Later on you come back from a flight of closer to 2 hours itching to go back up for more.
Biggest challenge in Flight Ops?
The early stages of flight training I think were the most challenging. Firstly learning to hover, then picking the aircraft up and putting it back on the ground gently, then flying decent circuits. Once all that starts to come together and you can start to put the helicopter where you want it to be it’s pretty cool.
Most memorable flight?
My most memorable moment in flight training (apart from first solo – woo hoo!) was a big navigation flight to Brisbane, Gold Coast, Archerfield and back to Maroochydore inland through the Glass House Mountains. Fantastic scenery heading south along the coast, with the best part being flying a helicopter myself down past SeaWorld and the Gold Coast beaches where my interest in choppers first began. Fantastic feeling being the pilot in the area where I had already been on about 4 scenic flights as a passenger.
Added by the Writer of this Blog 21/10/09: Another memorable moment? On the day of Geoff's CPLH Certificate Ceremony he later flew his grandparents, his Mum & Dad and his gorgeous wife Kylie on a scenic flight of the Coast.
What are you planning to do after Beckers?
After I finish my training I plan on packing my car and heading off to visit some tourism and charter operators in the hopes of picking up some work on the ground doing admin, loading passengers, refuelling etc. before eventually moving up to flying.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
In 5 years time I hope to be established with a company doing a variety of scenic and charter work with maybe a bit of aerial work (photography, film) as well in a turbine helicopter.
Final advice?
My final advice for anyone that has a love of helicopters and would like to fly them is really just to do it. Be realistic though about the time, effort and money involved in training for a CPL and the fact that it will take time to get established in the industry. Be prepared to work hard and treat training like a job and career goal. For me, too many things lined up to not chase my dream. I had fantastic support and ultimately didn’t want to live my life wondering.
20 October 2009
21 September 2009
cpl successes
A mammoth day for 18 year old Mick Graham (Aust) in gaining his CPLH today! Great work!
Well done to Dan Hull (Aust) and Suleman Hamidu (Nigeria) on passing their CPLH last week!
and congratulations to Janis Scholz (Germany) on passing his CPLH back in July 2009
Well done to Dan Hull (Aust) and Suleman Hamidu (Nigeria) on passing their CPLH last week!
and congratulations to Janis Scholz (Germany) on passing his CPLH back in July 2009
02 July 2009
30 June 2009
the green ute
Out on the Barkly, the legend is growing
‘bout an unusual event with much to-ing and fro-ing
After a little tough talking, the gauntlet was laid
The talking got tougher so the piper was paid
Down at the bar, Daly Waters no less
The boys hatched a plan – no one to confess
That the very next day without limit on pace
A Ute and a chopper are having a race
The lads from Orange, brand new Ute bright green
HDT with all the tricks, such speed is never seen.
A road trip to test her out, to really let her go
Up through the Territory wild oats we’re go’nna sew.
They coasted in to Daly smug in bright green
Thinking “we’re about the flashest unit this town has ever seen!”
They warm up at the bar, displaying such poise
Before the beer is half empty, “what’s the racket, what’s the noise?”
A helicopter landing – dust and drama all thrown up
Adoring crowd has disappeared, gone to see what’s up
The chopper boys are here now, new swagger in the room
“How fast is she?” snorts the pilot “have you heard a sonic boom?”
On it goes in to the night each team looking for top pace
Finally the cry goes out “there’s going to be a race”
Up in the Territory these things are lightly never taken
People come from miles around; they want to see a spanking
The Man from Snowy River was justly mighty proud
When word spread about his movements he drew a hefty crowd
But as the sun rose up at Daly, bush telegraph spread the heat
Trucks, vans, busses and utes, 500 souls lined the street!
The cheering was deafening as our heroes set sail
Fate would determine who would succeed and who would fail
To win that night Mount Isa many miles past
And drink a beer and rightly claim to be the Kings of FAST.
For the record, the Jet ranger she sailed true
Never wavering from her heading, speed or power – holding solid through and through
Flying straight across the Barkly setting record pace
Result was hardly doubtful, tortoise / hare were in this race
By days end, post-flight, refuel and have our showers
We got time before we need to show up and claim the victory ours
So our pilots rest up, all in good time….no haste
Overlander Hotel, showing up feels like a waste
They step from the cab, disbelief and hearts sinking
Can’t believe their eyes “Oh my God what were we thinking?”
Parked up on the curb, hot bitumen dripping
The mighty green Ute brew in hand, drivers sipping
So the crew from down south, without word of a lie
Have proved to the rest that they can low fly
Honorary Chopper Pilots, they’ve been given awards
No call for these heroes to drop down on their swords
Our legend grows on, how fast is that green Ute?
Old timers nod their heads, knowing she’s a rare beaut
The pilot’s they say had to retire in disgrace
Mocked by aviation for losing such a race
‘bout an unusual event with much to-ing and fro-ing
After a little tough talking, the gauntlet was laid
The talking got tougher so the piper was paid
Down at the bar, Daly Waters no less
The boys hatched a plan – no one to confess
That the very next day without limit on pace
A Ute and a chopper are having a race
The lads from Orange, brand new Ute bright green
HDT with all the tricks, such speed is never seen.
A road trip to test her out, to really let her go
Up through the Territory wild oats we’re go’nna sew.
They coasted in to Daly smug in bright green
Thinking “we’re about the flashest unit this town has ever seen!”
They warm up at the bar, displaying such poise
Before the beer is half empty, “what’s the racket, what’s the noise?”
A helicopter landing – dust and drama all thrown up
Adoring crowd has disappeared, gone to see what’s up
The chopper boys are here now, new swagger in the room
“How fast is she?” snorts the pilot “have you heard a sonic boom?”
On it goes in to the night each team looking for top pace
Finally the cry goes out “there’s going to be a race”
Up in the Territory these things are lightly never taken
People come from miles around; they want to see a spanking
The Man from Snowy River was justly mighty proud
When word spread about his movements he drew a hefty crowd
But as the sun rose up at Daly, bush telegraph spread the heat
Trucks, vans, busses and utes, 500 souls lined the street!
The cheering was deafening as our heroes set sail
Fate would determine who would succeed and who would fail
To win that night Mount Isa many miles past
And drink a beer and rightly claim to be the Kings of FAST.
For the record, the Jet ranger she sailed true
Never wavering from her heading, speed or power – holding solid through and through
Flying straight across the Barkly setting record pace
Result was hardly doubtful, tortoise / hare were in this race
By days end, post-flight, refuel and have our showers
We got time before we need to show up and claim the victory ours
So our pilots rest up, all in good time….no haste
Overlander Hotel, showing up feels like a waste
They step from the cab, disbelief and hearts sinking
Can’t believe their eyes “Oh my God what were we thinking?”
Parked up on the curb, hot bitumen dripping
The mighty green Ute brew in hand, drivers sipping
So the crew from down south, without word of a lie
Have proved to the rest that they can low fly
Honorary Chopper Pilots, they’ve been given awards
No call for these heroes to drop down on their swords
Our legend grows on, how fast is that green Ute?
Old timers nod their heads, knowing she’s a rare beaut
The pilot’s they say had to retire in disgrace
Mocked by aviation for losing such a race
congratulations guys
Scott Hennessey (USA) pass CPLH Flight Test on 18 June 2009
Suleman Hamidu (Nigeria) First Solo & First Solo Navigation
Mick Graham (AUS) First Solo
Geoff Shaw (AUS) First Solo
Dan Hull (AUS) First Solo & First Solo Navigation
Suleman Hamidu (Nigeria) First Solo & First Solo Navigation
Mick Graham (AUS) First Solo
Geoff Shaw (AUS) First Solo
Dan Hull (AUS) First Solo & First Solo Navigation
27 April 2009
robin passes his instructors rating course
We congratulate Robin who gained his Instructors Rating earlier this month. Robin trained at Beckers, then became our Theory Instructor and has fulfilled his dream to become a Flight Instructor.On test day, CASA's Testing Officer, Chris Townsend instructed Robin to give a board brief on Confined Areas before requesting Robin to teach him Elementary Handling in flight. During this flight Robin had to demonstrate Autorotations, Jammed Pedals, Low Fly whilst answering questions on Emergencies. Well done Robin!
28 March 2009
27 March 2009
boy from the bush is back in town
Who would have thought that a boy from the bush who dreamed of flying the helicopter that was mustering above him, would one day be running a Civilian flight school on the Sunshine Coast training students from all over the world to fly. Using his background of mustering, long lining and fire fighting, Fergus Ponder is value adding to the resources available to his students.
As a kid, Fergus Ponder grew up on a 40 000 acre sheep station in Northwestern NSW. His first job out of school was with Stanbroke Pastoral Company in 1986. He continued to work with them as a Jackaroo, stockman and then Head stockman until 1996 with brief stints away droving and helping out on the family station.
In 1996, the dream was to become a reality and to the shock of his wife Lee, he decided to become a helicopter pilot. Mike and Jan Becker had just started Noosa Helicopters, a flight school and Fergus was their second student to train. He took to it like a duck to water and found that helicopters were a whole lot easier to start than a colt on a cold morning.
His first job was with Webb Helicopters at Emerald QLD and it would be remiss to not mention his first official task as a newly graduated rookie pilot was to clean the loo! He soon worked his way in to mustering in an R22 around Central and Southwest Queensland, based at Windorah and venturing as far out as the Gammon Range in South Australia.
Fergus went back to Becker Helicopters in 1998, this time as a Flight Instructor. Mike and Jan were training students from a wide variety of backgrounds. Although flying was a comfortable place, standing in front of a class full of eager students was a bit of a stretch for Fergus. However he gained in experience and knowledge and started yearning for bigger and brighter horizons.
The Coleambally Irrigation Area in NSW was a long way from the Sunshine Coast, but a year of spraying rice and soy beans with MAS Agwork was a new challenge, however vertical reference long line was a goal that was not easily attained in Australia. As luck would have it and due to a 1 in 5 million chance, Fergus and his wife won a Green card through the American Diversity Lottery.
March 2000 saw a very different horizon – Southeast Alaska had much WOW factor at first glance, mountains that rise from the sea, virtually straight up and with big timber easily topping out around 200 feet tall. This was a place where long lining was commonplace. Temsco Helicopters gave Fergus his break in Turbine Helicopters and vertical reference, giving support to the Forestry Service all around the mountains and glaciers of Alaska. We won’t mention the days of Salmon fishing or riding a push bike trying to out run a black bear on the way home from work.
Fergus and Lee went to Texas for the winter of 2000 flying traffic watch in the Dallas metroplex in a Bell 206 Jetranger. The Australian accent was a bit of a hindrance over the airwaves and at one point he was stuck between two DFW runways hovering while the tower worked out what direction he was wanting to go. He soon learnt to talk ‘Texan” and radio speak was much easier.
The next summer - 2001 found them back in Alaska with Fergus honing his skill with the long line as he helped support a crew of 40 staff and 200 dogs on a glacier 6000 ft above Skagway. He also flew tourists over the glaciers, fjords and mountains SE of Alaska. You can’t beat an Aussie from the bush telling tourists about Glaciers in Alaska – watch out for the drop bears on the glacier!
The next two years Fergus flew Emergency services in Texas and Alaska in Twin Squirrels, BK117’s, Bell 212 and Bell 407’s. Long line took back seat to the birth of his two boys, Jackson and Lachlan.
Midwest Helicopters in Chicago took Fergus under their wing in 2003 where he started at ground level and worked his way up to Chief Pilot as the lead long line pilot flying an S58T all over the continental USA. MWH is mainly a construction support and fire fighting company, flying 100 – 300 ft lines bringing aerial support to high rise in the cities, to power line tower construction over the Mississippi and concrete pouring for cell towers in the Rockies.
In 2005, he was booked for ‘parking’ the helicopter in a no parking zone in down town Chicago, while they refueled the S58T during a high rise job. To his defense, it was a hot refuel and he still says he was not parked at the time, as the engines were still running.
Fergus flew the Army Core of Engineers and other military and civilian contractors around New Orleans during the relief effort after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The fire seasons were long, starting as early as Easter and at times not finishing until November or December.
So our blast in the USA came to an end in 2008, after many adventures it was time to come home. Now the Head of Becker Helicopter Civil Flight school – managing a fleet of R22, R44, AS 350, Agusta 119 Koala and Agusta 109 E Power. Fergus will use his wide base of experience to bring a little something extra to the civilian flight school.
“We are running regular long lining courses here” Fergus says, “we do 10 hours of flight training and that includes everything from belly hooking right up to either a 100’ or 150’ line depending on the student. It’s a great challenge and when you get the knack, it is an extremely satisfying skill.”
Written by Lee Ponder, as with most bushies, Fergus (my husband of 17 yrs ) hates to tout his own horn, but his wife it happy to brag – so here goes………
05 November 2008
coffey signs major government training contracts in the middle east
Sunshine Coast organisations key to delivering one of the largest commercial aviation contracts in Australian history
3 November 2008
Sunshine Coast organisations are key to delivering one of the largest commercial aviation training contracts in Australia’s history.
Following an announcement earlier this year that Specialist Training Australia (STA), a subsidiary of Coffey International Limited, had signed agreements to provide aviation training worth in excess of $100 million to a Middle Eastern client, STA has now confirmed the client is the Saudi Arabian National Guard.
Roger Olds, managing director of Coffey International Limited, said: “We invested in the Gulf States’ market four years ago and it is wonderful to be able to deliver this training in Australia, with the support of local service providers. We had to compete against international competition that had previous relationships, but we won this on the quality of our team and a desire for the client to develop Australian relationships.”
Local small business Becker Helicopter Services, with support from KBR, will provide basic pilot training for over 100 helicopter pilots, and the University of the Sunshine Coast will provide English language training, as part of a contract for STA.
STA Program Manager Gavin Lawrence said that it was in no small part a testimony to the vision of Mike and Jan Becker, owners of Becker Helicopter Services, that STA was about to launch into the delivery of the training.
“Mike and Jan have truly helped to place the Sunshine Coast on the international map for helicopter training.”
Appreciation for help in winning and delivering the contract is also extended to a number of other people and organisations:
• The Mayor and Councillors of Sunshine Coast Regional Council
• Julie Swain, Principal Regional Development Officer, Department of Tourism, Regional Development & Industry
• KBR
• University of the Sunshine Coast.
Gavin also said that the students would be living, working and spending in the local community.
“The flow-on effects to the local community are immeasurable. I trust that the people of the Sunshine Coast will embrace this opportunity and take the chance to share this fantastic area with the National Guardsmen and their families.”
In addition to the 100 pilots being trained at the Sunshine Coast, some 200 plus aircraft maintainers will be trained under contract at Queensland Government facilities in Brisbane.
In total, the aviation training is worth in excess of $100 million over five years, much of which will flow directly into the Queensland economy. The contract was won against international competition and is thought to be the largest contract of its type won by an Australian company.
The first students will commence training on the Sunshine Coast this week.
Media contact:
Diana Krause, Communications Manager, Coffey International Limited
P: (+61) (3) 9473 1300; M: (+61) 420 959 942; E: diana_krause@coffey.com
About STA
Specialist Training Australia (STA) is a project manager and provider of integrated training solutions for the defence, police and security sectors. We are entirely focussed on delivering our services to the Gulf countries and, in conjunction with our capability partners in Australia, provide customers with access to some of the best training, education and manpower development services that Australia has to offer.
Our scope of operations range from the conduct of detailed training needs analyses, the preparation of training proposals tailored to specific customer requirements and the implementation of complex training solutions and capability development for major projects; through to turnkey training systems and facilities management, on the job training and the provision of supervisory and specialist manpower for a wide range of operational and technical requirements.
STA utilises specialist experience and capability from Australia and works closely with our customers to diagnose, define and develop their requirements. We have significant experience in working directly with our customers to develop and deliver comprehensive and sophisticated contracted outcomes.
We have achieved this though the assembly, management and deployment of teams of Subject Matter Experts (SME), working both within and external to our customer facilities. We have also considerable experience of supporting our specialist operational and management teams though both our UAE and Australian based management capability.
STA is wholly Australian owned and is a subsidiary of Coffey International Limited.
About Coffey
Coffey International Limited (ASX:COF) has been operating for nearly 50 years, and is part of the S&P ASX 300. We have a range of specialist businesses working in the social and physical infrastructure markets, and collectively, we aim to achieve our vision: to be global specialists solving emerging challenges to improve the lives of communities.
Around the world, we are providing services at every stage of the infrastructure lifecycle – starting with planning and financing the project, through development and resolving the technical challenges to the management of resources, timelines and budgets. The cycle continues as we use our specialist knowledge to ensure objectives continue to be met in the long term and infrastructure is appropriately maintained.
Our work involves a wide a range of built assets – like roads, buildings, gas pipelines, mines, and sporting facilities – just about everything that is required to meet the demands of a growing world population, rapid urbanisation and heightened environmental sustainability awareness.
Through our expertise, we are also enabling government and aid agencies to strengthen local communities, increasing quality of life and living standards. We develop mechanisms and manage projects across a range of social infrastructure, including economic development, education and training and health.
We have over 4,200 people working on projects in more than 80 countries and permanent offices throughout Oceania, the Americas, Africa, Asia and Europe. Our plans are to continue expanding our specialist businesses through organic, transformational and acquisition growth.
Visit coffey.com for more information.
3 November 2008
Sunshine Coast organisations are key to delivering one of the largest commercial aviation training contracts in Australia’s history.
Following an announcement earlier this year that Specialist Training Australia (STA), a subsidiary of Coffey International Limited, had signed agreements to provide aviation training worth in excess of $100 million to a Middle Eastern client, STA has now confirmed the client is the Saudi Arabian National Guard.
Roger Olds, managing director of Coffey International Limited, said: “We invested in the Gulf States’ market four years ago and it is wonderful to be able to deliver this training in Australia, with the support of local service providers. We had to compete against international competition that had previous relationships, but we won this on the quality of our team and a desire for the client to develop Australian relationships.”
Local small business Becker Helicopter Services, with support from KBR, will provide basic pilot training for over 100 helicopter pilots, and the University of the Sunshine Coast will provide English language training, as part of a contract for STA.
STA Program Manager Gavin Lawrence said that it was in no small part a testimony to the vision of Mike and Jan Becker, owners of Becker Helicopter Services, that STA was about to launch into the delivery of the training.
“Mike and Jan have truly helped to place the Sunshine Coast on the international map for helicopter training.”
Appreciation for help in winning and delivering the contract is also extended to a number of other people and organisations:
• The Mayor and Councillors of Sunshine Coast Regional Council
• Julie Swain, Principal Regional Development Officer, Department of Tourism, Regional Development & Industry
• KBR
• University of the Sunshine Coast.
Gavin also said that the students would be living, working and spending in the local community.
“The flow-on effects to the local community are immeasurable. I trust that the people of the Sunshine Coast will embrace this opportunity and take the chance to share this fantastic area with the National Guardsmen and their families.”
In addition to the 100 pilots being trained at the Sunshine Coast, some 200 plus aircraft maintainers will be trained under contract at Queensland Government facilities in Brisbane.
In total, the aviation training is worth in excess of $100 million over five years, much of which will flow directly into the Queensland economy. The contract was won against international competition and is thought to be the largest contract of its type won by an Australian company.
The first students will commence training on the Sunshine Coast this week.
Media contact:
Diana Krause, Communications Manager, Coffey International Limited
P: (+61) (3) 9473 1300; M: (+61) 420 959 942; E: diana_krause@coffey.com
About STA
Specialist Training Australia (STA) is a project manager and provider of integrated training solutions for the defence, police and security sectors. We are entirely focussed on delivering our services to the Gulf countries and, in conjunction with our capability partners in Australia, provide customers with access to some of the best training, education and manpower development services that Australia has to offer.
Our scope of operations range from the conduct of detailed training needs analyses, the preparation of training proposals tailored to specific customer requirements and the implementation of complex training solutions and capability development for major projects; through to turnkey training systems and facilities management, on the job training and the provision of supervisory and specialist manpower for a wide range of operational and technical requirements.
STA utilises specialist experience and capability from Australia and works closely with our customers to diagnose, define and develop their requirements. We have significant experience in working directly with our customers to develop and deliver comprehensive and sophisticated contracted outcomes.
We have achieved this though the assembly, management and deployment of teams of Subject Matter Experts (SME), working both within and external to our customer facilities. We have also considerable experience of supporting our specialist operational and management teams though both our UAE and Australian based management capability.
STA is wholly Australian owned and is a subsidiary of Coffey International Limited.
About Coffey
Coffey International Limited (ASX:COF) has been operating for nearly 50 years, and is part of the S&P ASX 300. We have a range of specialist businesses working in the social and physical infrastructure markets, and collectively, we aim to achieve our vision: to be global specialists solving emerging challenges to improve the lives of communities.
Around the world, we are providing services at every stage of the infrastructure lifecycle – starting with planning and financing the project, through development and resolving the technical challenges to the management of resources, timelines and budgets. The cycle continues as we use our specialist knowledge to ensure objectives continue to be met in the long term and infrastructure is appropriately maintained.
Our work involves a wide a range of built assets – like roads, buildings, gas pipelines, mines, and sporting facilities – just about everything that is required to meet the demands of a growing world population, rapid urbanisation and heightened environmental sustainability awareness.
Through our expertise, we are also enabling government and aid agencies to strengthen local communities, increasing quality of life and living standards. We develop mechanisms and manage projects across a range of social infrastructure, including economic development, education and training and health.
We have over 4,200 people working on projects in more than 80 countries and permanent offices throughout Oceania, the Americas, Africa, Asia and Europe. Our plans are to continue expanding our specialist businesses through organic, transformational and acquisition growth.
Visit coffey.com for more information.
18 August 2008
profile: johan hoogduyn
Name: Johan Hoogduyn
Country of origin: The Netherlands
Why did you want fly Helicopters?
It is something that's part of a big wish. I eventually want to conduct voluntarily work once I have made a living. What better can you do than being helicopter which you can use for dropping, evacuation, rescue in general or anything similar you name it.
Why did you choose Beckers?
I initially chose the country. It has to be stable weather rather than Europe where the weather is, especially around the Northsea, very unstable. Second I chose dozens of flightschool around Australia and chose Beckers because of their straightforwardness and honesty. They do not promise you mountains of gold but the tell you that with hard work AND the right attitude you can have a wonderful time..
When did you start here?
November 2007
What was theory like?
I didn't sit class. As of my previous experience because of my aeronautical degree almost 75% was clear for me. So, besides my flying, I studied hard at home for 7 weeks and did the 7 exams which I passed well.
During the week how many hours you study for cyber exams?
I usually did 8 hrs a day during previous mentioned 7 wks and during my 2-3 hours break I did initial training.
Was it enough?
Yes it was, I passed all exams. Ok, not with 98% but I passed them nicely :)
What was your "first" flight experience with Beckers and who did you fly with?
I flew with Mez for the first time. My first flight was amazing and the best , but also the most difficult, I have ever done. Helicopter flying is difficult in the beginning but after 10 hrs you get the feeling and can start enjoying it.
Best flying experience?
First solo NAV. I flew through the amazing mountains ranges where the tops were towering above layers of fog which covered the valleys. On the way way back via de coast spotted some dolphins, very nice and unforgettable.
Not so nice flying experience?
The day I decided to "just" swap over from the R22 to the R44 helicopter when I had to do my dummy CPL test. Lot of stress and all my skills were gone all the sudden because of the stress.
Luckily after 1 hour Mike got me back on track and three days later I passed my CPL :)
What was your flight test like?
The actual flighttest was "relatively" easy as Mike prepares you through and through already on the dummy test. On the dummy test you work very hard: You do emergencies , diversions in nav flights, engine failures ,questions to put pressure upon you, faking sick passenger in the back of the R44. But..... after you have experienced all this and he sees you do well he just does the things he needs to do on the actual flighttest and that is it.
And amazingly even on your flighttest he teaches you so many small tricks to improve your airmanship.
Where and what are you going to do now?
I hope that a job comes off around the Great Ocean Road. Otherwise I return to Europe and concentrate on my previous job in aeronautical engineering to set out a course to become helicopter pilot and gaining hours. So if anyone knows a nice spot: I speak 6 languages and know how to fly helicopters and I am not lazy to get my hand dirty......
Advice to new students?
In Australia the helicopter business is one in which you have to do 3-5 years of hard work until you've gained 1500-2000hrs. After that you career gets a lot better. Do not hesistate and follow your intuition. If you want something go for it and you will succeed.
Country of origin: The Netherlands
Why did you want fly Helicopters?
It is something that's part of a big wish. I eventually want to conduct voluntarily work once I have made a living. What better can you do than being helicopter which you can use for dropping, evacuation, rescue in general or anything similar you name it.
Why did you choose Beckers?
I initially chose the country. It has to be stable weather rather than Europe where the weather is, especially around the Northsea, very unstable. Second I chose dozens of flightschool around Australia and chose Beckers because of their straightforwardness and honesty. They do not promise you mountains of gold but the tell you that with hard work AND the right attitude you can have a wonderful time..
When did you start here?
November 2007
What was theory like?
I didn't sit class. As of my previous experience because of my aeronautical degree almost 75% was clear for me. So, besides my flying, I studied hard at home for 7 weeks and did the 7 exams which I passed well.
During the week how many hours you study for cyber exams?
I usually did 8 hrs a day during previous mentioned 7 wks and during my 2-3 hours break I did initial training.
Was it enough?
Yes it was, I passed all exams. Ok, not with 98% but I passed them nicely :)
What was your "first" flight experience with Beckers and who did you fly with?
I flew with Mez for the first time. My first flight was amazing and the best , but also the most difficult, I have ever done. Helicopter flying is difficult in the beginning but after 10 hrs you get the feeling and can start enjoying it.
Best flying experience?
First solo NAV. I flew through the amazing mountains ranges where the tops were towering above layers of fog which covered the valleys. On the way way back via de coast spotted some dolphins, very nice and unforgettable.
Not so nice flying experience?
The day I decided to "just" swap over from the R22 to the R44 helicopter when I had to do my dummy CPL test. Lot of stress and all my skills were gone all the sudden because of the stress.
Luckily after 1 hour Mike got me back on track and three days later I passed my CPL :)
What was your flight test like?
The actual flighttest was "relatively" easy as Mike prepares you through and through already on the dummy test. On the dummy test you work very hard: You do emergencies , diversions in nav flights, engine failures ,questions to put pressure upon you, faking sick passenger in the back of the R44. But..... after you have experienced all this and he sees you do well he just does the things he needs to do on the actual flighttest and that is it.
And amazingly even on your flighttest he teaches you so many small tricks to improve your airmanship.
Where and what are you going to do now?
I hope that a job comes off around the Great Ocean Road. Otherwise I return to Europe and concentrate on my previous job in aeronautical engineering to set out a course to become helicopter pilot and gaining hours. So if anyone knows a nice spot: I speak 6 languages and know how to fly helicopters and I am not lazy to get my hand dirty......
Advice to new students?
In Australia the helicopter business is one in which you have to do 3-5 years of hard work until you've gained 1500-2000hrs. After that you career gets a lot better. Do not hesistate and follow your intuition. If you want something go for it and you will succeed.
14 August 2008
12 August 2008
andrew bennett takes to the skies!
Here's a great movie submitted by Andrew taken when he was training with Niels at the school in January. Enjoy!
11 August 2008
dynamic roll over
jahan hassan // Jul 19, 2008 at 11:38 am Go to Best Aviation Articles for a look at Mike's article on Dynamic Roll Over submitted last month.
I am taking summer course about “Helicopter dynamics” and during class, phenomena related to helicopter flight is too difficult to visualize in mind, so I end up with no learning during class.
This article with clear illustrations made me a bit easy with helicopter dynamics. This article was very much interesting and written in such an attractive manner that I read it whole in one time, which I usually don’t.
Thank you writer and beckerhelicopters.
07 August 2008
forecasting the weather
At all times the pilot is at the mercy of the elements that we call the weather. It is with sound knowledge of the science of meteorology that we are in a position to make decisions as a pilot to safely operate our aircraft within this mass we call the atmosphere.
Definition of forecast: The ability to predict, or to calculate the weather beforehand, so that the person reading the forecast can make provision or allowance for. This does not mean it will happen, as we cannot see 100% into the future. In aviation weather forecasting the probability of the forecast happening is only 50% or greater.
At Beckers we've erected this ...
Definition of forecast: The ability to predict, or to calculate the weather beforehand, so that the person reading the forecast can make provision or allowance for. This does not mean it will happen, as we cannot see 100% into the future. In aviation weather forecasting the probability of the forecast happening is only 50% or greater.
At Beckers we've erected this ...
04 August 2008
28 July 2008
where is fergus?
22 July 2008
christine's ferry flight
Former student Christine Lalo shows pictures of her recent 15 hour ferry flight from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu. Remarkably 4.5 hours of that was flying over water! We are proud of her as many pilots don't like to fly this direct route.
Before the big crossing
Pic taken during a stop
Arriving at Kuching Airport the ATC were very friendly, as they seldom hear female pilots call on the radio. She was given VIP treatment until she landed.
One of her proudest moments of the trip? Landing in her hometown of Miri.
Before the big crossing
Pic taken during a stop
Arriving at Kuching Airport the ATC were very friendly, as they seldom hear female pilots call on the radio. She was given VIP treatment until she landed.
One of her proudest moments of the trip? Landing in her hometown of Miri.
18 July 2008
ciao from italy
Mike and Jan says Ciao! from outside their hotel located in a beautiful village, not far from the Agusta (helicopter) factory in Italy. Are we jealous? You bet! But there's a lot of serious work for Mike as he completes his Agusta type course. Just recently Mike got to experience a flight with the company's test pilots in an A139, flying over the whole region and into Switzerland. Jan got to enjoy the views from the luxury of the back seats.
They return to Australia on Thursday 24 July 2008.
16 July 2008
from a swiss perspective
Name: Susanne Gisler
Country: Switzerland
Why do you want to fly helicopters? Well actually, 14 months ago I was driving a motorboat when I looked up and thought "I should be up there and not here!" I love doing special things so it was then I decided to learn to fly helicopters :)
Why did you choose Beckers? My instructor in Switzerland told me to contact Michael Pestalozzi also from Switzerland and a former student from Beckers. He told me to go to the Beckers' website and from there I contacted Jan Becker. I came because I wanted to train as soon as possible.
When did you start here? 3 days ago.
What are you planning to do at Beckers? To do all my practical, about 40+ hours and then return to Switzerland and finish my PPL(H) licence.
What was your first flight experience at Beckers like? My first flight was with Niels. It all went really quick. I thought were just going to plan my flight programme but instead we headed out to fly! I am glad I remembered two of the most important words you need to know when flying ... "YOUR CONTROLS!" :)
Country: Switzerland
Why do you want to fly helicopters? Well actually, 14 months ago I was driving a motorboat when I looked up and thought "I should be up there and not here!" I love doing special things so it was then I decided to learn to fly helicopters :)
Why did you choose Beckers? My instructor in Switzerland told me to contact Michael Pestalozzi also from Switzerland and a former student from Beckers. He told me to go to the Beckers' website and from there I contacted Jan Becker. I came because I wanted to train as soon as possible.
When did you start here? 3 days ago.
What are you planning to do at Beckers? To do all my practical, about 40+ hours and then return to Switzerland and finish my PPL(H) licence.
What was your first flight experience at Beckers like? My first flight was with Niels. It all went really quick. I thought were just going to plan my flight programme but instead we headed out to fly! I am glad I remembered two of the most important words you need to know when flying ... "YOUR CONTROLS!" :)
There's a lot to learn but I don't care because I am looking forward to it!
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