Free trainers for helicopter pilots. Practise every CAA NZ PPL(H) and CPL(H) theory subject, work real problems on an E6B flight computer, and run the start-up and shutdown for the R44, Schweizer 300, Bell 206, MD 500 and UH-1H on live gauges.
Every trainer explains the reasoning behind each answer or step, so you learn why, not just what. Nothing to install and no sign-up.
Out-of-order switches are caught and explained, the way an instructor would in the left seat.
Too early and the temperature spikes. Too late and you burn starter time. Feel the difference on the gauge.
Recognise a hot or hung start, cut the fuel, keep motoring and bring the temperature down.
Each step explains the system behind it, which is what checkrides and CPL(H) exams ask about.
The FAA's free textbook for helicopter pilots, all 13 chapters, each linked to the trainer that drills the same topic.
Lift, torque, translational lift and autorotation.
Piston and turbine engines, transmission, fuel and electrics.
Vortex ring state, dynamic rollover, LTE and ground resonance.
SamoaHelicopters is made in Apia, Samoa, by Karl, a New Zealand-licensed helicopter private pilot (R44) working towards a commercial licence. The trainers started as my own study aids for the CPL(H) theory exams and for learning start-ups properly, then grew to cover the types students most often move on to.
They are free to use. If you spot an error or want another aircraft added, get in touch.
Planned additions. None of these are live yet.
CautionThese trainers are learning tools built from typical published procedures and the CAA NZ syllabus. They are not approved checklists, not official exam questions, and do not replace instruction. Always use the current flight manual, Civil Aviation Rules and AIP New Zealand.