Gyro are fun to fly - but like all aircraft they need to be treated with respect.  You need proper training with a qualified Instructor in order to fly safely -  and that's what we are all about.

 

Learning how to fly is an intense and challenging experience which is also hugely satisfying and great fun.   The transition from an earth-bound individual to one of the small band who takes to the skies opens up a new world of opportunity and adventure.

 

At The Gyrocopter Experience Salisbury we don't teach you how to fly - we teach you how to be a pilot.  Our courses go way beyond the basic skills of operating the aircraft and cover use of the radio, airmanship, navigation, familiarity with the aircraft, plus the ins-and-outs of gyroplane ownership.  You'll also get advice on which machine is best for you, and all the support you need to get going in the world of gyroplane aviation.

If you don't already hold a licence to fly another type of aircraft then you'll need to start from scratch ("ab initio" in aviation-speak).  That means a minimum of 40 hours of flight training, 20 of which must be dual and 10 solo (the remaining 10 may be either dual or solo).  Then there's a set of written exams covering Air Law, Navigation, Meteorology, Human factors and Gyroplane Technical.  When you are ready to go you take a General Flying Test (GFT) with and Examiner, and then you'll be the holder of a Private Pilot's Licenece (Gyroplanes) or PPL(G).  If you plan to use your aircraft radio (most people do) then you will also need a Radio Telephony (RT) licence.

 

How many hours training you need to qualify depends on the individual's abilities, their degree of application, and how regularly you fly; somewhere between 40 and 60 hours is typical.

 

We all learn in different ways and at different speeds, so here at Gyro Training we are careful to match the learning experience to you.  Whether you want to come along for intensive training, or just come for an hour a week, we will tailor your course for you.

 

Our integrated training includes use of the radio, airmanship, understanding the gyroplane, and the practical application of navigation and meteorology.  For the exam subjects most people choose to "self study", in which case we will provide support and advice.  If it has been a while since you sat an exam, then 1-1 ground school is available, as are courses for your Radio licence.

 

You will also need a medical certificate before you can go solo - but don't worry, the certificate is issued by your GP and is based on the DVLA requirements for drivers.   See the Training Resources page for details.

 

 

If you are already the holder of a pilot's licence - then the training requirements are reduced.

 

Holders of fixed-wing or microlight pilots' licences (either JAA or NPPL) and glider pilots with a "Silver C" qualification have the total training requirement reduced to 30 hours - of which at least 10 must be dual and 10 must be solo.  The only exam PPL holders need to take is Gyroplane Technical.

 

Holders of Helicopter licences must do a minimum of 20 hours flight training (10 dual, 10 solo) and take the Gyroplane Technical exam.

 

Many existing pilots convert in close to minimum hours.

Our school aircraft are currently the "MT" range from Rotorsport UK.  

 

If you have your own gyroplane from another manufacturer we can teach you to fly that too - as long as it is a UK approved factory-built aircraft.