Building Hours or Building a Career? Why Smart CPL (Commercial Pilot Licence) Pilots Do Both
- Henley Air Flight Training
- Jun 5
- 2 min read
For many helicopter pilots, the journey from Private Pilot Licence (PPL(H)) to Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL(H)) is focused on one number: flight hours.
While accumulating the required experience is an essential part of qualifying for a commercial licence, experienced pilots and employers understand that not all hours provide the same value. The most effective training plans are those that allow pilots to build hours while simultaneously developing additional skills and qualifications that enhance their employability.
The Value of Flight Simulation Training
At Henley Air Flight Training, we do not use our advanced helicopter Bell 222 flight simulator for initial PPL(H) training. Learning to fly a helicopter requires the development of fundamental handling skills, situational awareness, and aircraft feel that are best acquired in the helicopter itself.
However, as pilots progress toward a CPL(H), flight simulation becomes an increasingly valuable training tool.
South African regulations allow approved Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTDs) to be credited towards certain licensing and training requirements when used as part of an approved training programme. These devices provide a safe and efficient environment in which pilots can develop advanced skills, procedures, and systems knowledge.
Don't Just Build Hours – Build Qualifications with your Commercial Pilot Licence
A common mistake made by aspiring commercial pilots is to focus solely on accumulating hours without considering how those hours can contribute to their long-term career goals.
Instead of simply flying circuits or general navigation exercises to increase total flight time, many pilots choose to combine their hour-building with additional ratings and qualifications.
Examples include:
Additional aircraft type ratings
By integrating these qualifications into a structured training plan, pilots not only progress towards their CPL(H) hour requirements but also develop skills that are valued by operators and future employers.
What Are Employers Looking For?
Entry-level helicopter positions are highly competitive. While total flight time remains important, operators are often looking for pilots who demonstrate a broader range of capabilities and a commitment to professional development.
Night flying experience introduces pilots to reduced visual environments and increases reliance on instrument interpretation and situational awareness.
Instrument training develops precision, procedural discipline, and cockpit management skills that benefit pilots in virtually every operational environment.
Multi-engine training introduces more advanced aircraft systems and performance management considerations.
These qualifications do not guarantee employment, but they can help distinguish a candidate from others with similar flight hours.
Maximising the Return on Your Training Investment
Flight training represents a significant investment of both time and resources. For this reason, it makes sense to ensure that every hour contributes meaningfully towards your long-term objectives.
A well-structured CPL(H) training pathway should do more than satisfy minimum licensing requirements. It should help develop a pilot who is technically proficient, operationally aware, and prepared for the demands of professional helicopter operations.
The question should not simply be,
"How do I reach the required hours for a CPL(H)?"
A better question is:
"How do I use those hours to become the most employable pilot possible?"
At Henley Air Flight Training, we work with each student to develop a training pathway that aligns with their goals, ensuring that every hour flown contributes towards both licence progression and professional development.
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