Helicopters are expensive to run and maintain. To help mitigate expenses, many helicopter flight schools use "trainer" piston driven helicopters such as the Robinson R-22. These helicopters rent and fly at an average of $200 to $300 an hour, wet. Wet means all fuel cost is included with the rental. A private rotor rating license requires an average of 100 hours to achieve, and a commercial rating license averages 200 to 300 hours.
All pilots, fixed wing and rotor, are required to undergo a series of ground school lessons designed to prepare them for flight and all associated exams. Ground school costs are typically done as an hourly rate with your Certified Flight Instructor (CFI.) During ground school you learn basic aerodynamics, pilotage, the mechanics of the helicopter and its systems, navigation-pilotage and radio communications.
All flight schools assign a CFI to the student. It is advisable to remain with the same CFI during your flight training as the CFI learns your styles of learning as much as you learn how to work with your CFI. The relationship between the CFI and student is one of trust and respect. If you feel your CFI does not suit your needs, bring it to his or her attention. If you cannot work out your differences, it is okay to request a new CFI.
Testing for an FAA-approved rotor license is divided into three separate exams. Plan on taking a written exam, an oral exam where you tester administers a series of questions and scenarios and a practical check ride flight where you and the tester fly for about two to three hours as you perform all the maneuvers required by the FAA and examiner.
Your training is dictated by you, meaning, if you wish to train in a specific helicopter, find a school that offers training in that particular model.