The first class of RHC’s Instructor Pilot standardisation course passed out at the end of March. Photo: RHC
Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC) has announced its new Instructor Pilot (IP) Standardisation Course. The programme is designed to elevate flight training by equipping instructors with the skills and knowledge to produce highly proficient pilots. To create the course, the company said it has leveraged its decades of safety expertise and was the next logical step beyond the long-established Safety Course. The enhanced curriculum of the IP course signifies a strategic shift, positioning Robinson as a preeminent leader in safety and global helicopter pilot training.
The Robinson IP programme offers graduates the opportunity to join a network of ‘approved training providers’. This designation signifies instructor qualification and provides new opportunities for aspiring operators and pilots. Furthermore, as RHC expands its training footprint, the company will introduce additional factory programmes and incentives to direct customers towards its network of approved training providers.
The inaugural course took place last month, with a further four planned over the remainder of the year. The key elements of the course include:
- Full-Week Curriculum: Classroom instruction takes place over a full week (Monday through Friday, 8 AM–5 PM), allowing for deep dives into crucial topics.
- Focus on Flight Proficiency: Several hours of flight training provide instructors with enhanced hands-on practice for refining their skills.
- Enhanced Safety Training: The course will place a significant emphasis on safety and incident mitigation strategies.
- Back to Basics & Precision: The class highlights the importance of fundamental manoeuvres, advanced procedures, and system failure responses, ensuring instructors can effectively train others in both basic and advanced flying techniques.
- Aircraft Expertise: In-depth instruction on Robinson helicopter design equips instructors with a thorough understanding of the aircraft they’ll be teaching others to fly.
Commenting on the course, RHC President David Smith said, “This new IP course reflects Robinson Helicopter Company’s commitment to safety and excellence in helicopter training; an entire generation of pilots has built their careers from their experience training in a Robinson aircraft. This course aims to advance safety and train the next generation for successful careers in aviation.”
