Fly a light helicopter
LAPL Helicopter License
The LAPL Helicopter (Light Aircraft Pilot Licence for Helicopters) is the entry-level license for rotorcraft leisure flying. It authorises you to fly light helicopters under 2 tonnes, with up to 3 passengers, under visual flight rules (VFR) in Europe. Helicopter training is longer and more expensive than fixed-wing, due to the complexity of the aircraft.
The essentials
The European LAPL(H) is the lightest helicopter pilot licence, authorising VFR daytime flight on single-engine helicopters up to 2,000 kg with a maximum of 3 passengers. Reduced minimum: 40h flight (vs 45h for the PPL(H)). 2026 cost between EUR 18,000 and EUR 25,000 due to the high helicopter hourly rate. Class 2 LAPL medical, no IFR or international flight.
Pricing and rates for LAPL Helicopter License
The price of LAPL helicopter training ranges from €18,000 to €30,000 depending on the type of helicopter used and the actual hours needed. Piston helicopters like the Robinson R22 or Cabri G2 are the most affordable for initial training (€350 to €500/h). The EASA regulatory minimum is 40 flight hours including 10 solo, but expect rather 50 to 60 hours. The fee includes LAPL(H) theory training, DGAC exams, the Skill Test with a qualified examiner, and the Class 2 or LAPL EASA medical with an AME doctor (€100 to €200). Helicopter cost is significantly higher than airplane due to mechanical complexity and hourly fuel consumption of the aircraft.
How it works
01
LAPL(H) theory
Tuition on rotorcraft flight mechanics, meteorology, navigation, regulations.
02
Flight training
40 hours with an instructor, including first solo take-offs and landings.
03
Exams and test
EASA theory MCQ + skill test with an examiner.
What's included
- LAPL(H) theory training
- Minimum 40 flight hours including 10 solo
- EASA theory exam
- Skill test with an examiner
Prerequisites
- Be at least 17 years old
- LAPL medical fitness certificate from an AME doctor
Frequently asked questions
Can a fixed-wing pilot easily learn to fly a helicopter?
Common theory (weather, navigation, regulations) is partially transferable, but the flying technique is very different. Most fixed-wing pilots require as many hours as a complete beginner.
How much does LAPL helicopter training cost?
LAPL helicopter training costs between €18000 and €30000 depending on the type of helicopter used and the number of hours. Piston helicopters such as the Robinson R22 are the most affordable for initial training.
What medical certificate is required for the LAPL helicopter?
The LAPL helicopter requires a LAPL or Class 2 medical fitness certificate, issued by an AME doctor (Aircraft Medical Examiner) listed by the DGAC. It is less restrictive than Class 1 (ATPL) and accessible to most candidates in good health. Validity: 5 years before age 40, 2 years after. Cost: €100-200.
What privileges and limitations does the LAPL(H) carry in Europe?
The LAPL(H) authorises piloting single-engine piston helicopters up to 2,000 kg (MTOW) with 3 passengers max, in day VFR, within EASA airspace (EU + Switzerland + Norway + Iceland). No IFR flying, no paid transport, no flying outside EASA airspace. The PPL(H) is required for these extensions.
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