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Elstree Helicopters is the ONLY CAA approved training organisation for Helicopters ATO(H) based at London Elstree Aerodrome. Established here in 2012, our unique, family run helicopter flying school has been delivering FIRST CLASS, accessible PPL(H)/LAPL(H) training for ALL since 1999.

Our highly skilled team of flight instructors offer bespoke tuition in a friendly, training focused environment and are dedicated to producing safe, competent pilots with a depth of knowledge that’s second to none. We also boast an impressive, well maintained fleet, so are well equipped to find the perfect helicopter for you, for your PPL and beyond.

In addition, we also provide FREE ground school, student trips, fantastic training and self fly hire packages plus an open invitation to be a part of our flying family. Whether your dream is to become a commercial pilot or simply fly for pleasure there is no better place to begin your flying journey.

Zero to Hero

Go solo in just 25 hours with this fantastic training package

Save up to

£3275

start your journey

Test Drive a Turbine

Let temptation get the
better of you

Prices from

£459

find out more

Trial Lessons

Learn what it’s like to fly a helicopter, lessons available across the fleet

Prices from

£178

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Introducing Capt. Paul White
With 26 years of experience and 9000 instructional hours, Capt. White is both our Company Founder and Head of Training. Fulfilling a childhood dream, Capt. White started his flying journey in 1997 and has since devoted the majority of his flying career to teaching. Previously operating as Heliservices out of Cranfield, in 2012 Capt. White and his wife moved the flying school to London Elstree and Elstree Helicopters was born!
“No two students are the same and everyone learns in different ways and speeds so we aim to find out what makes our students tick and tailor their training accordingly” – Capt. Paul White
You can find out all about Capt. White’s flying journey in his blog series

test drive a turbine

Let temptation get the better of you

The Bell 206 is a two-bladed, single engine and the archetypal helicopter. Originally developed for the United States Army in 1962, this light utility aircraft is rugged and reliable. Although not called up for service, the B206 or Jet Ranger shifted into the private/commercial market due to its luxurious ride and fabulous safety record. The 60s produced many national treasures (The Beatles, the mini cooper, Julie Andrews) and the Jet Ranger is no exception and as seen on screen this 5 seater rotorcraft is synonymous with style and even today remains the world’s most popular turbine helicopter.

“Fully loaded as standard, you really do get a lot of helicopter for your money. It’s great for training and a fun, capable machine for private owners as it’s sedate qualities mean you don’t necessarily need to have quite the lightning reactions of a pilot that flies daily.” – Capt. White

Let temptation get the better of you BOOK NOW

student trips

Spring Trip Collection

We have now finalised dates and destinations for Spring 2025. As we enter the warmer months and hopefully the weather will be a little less changeable, it’s the perfect time to bring back some of our favourite trips.

Alongside our SIXTH UK TOUR this May, we have also found time for TWO more! In April we head to The Gunton Arms, Norfolk a relatively new addition to our trips and of course the schedule would not be complete without saying bonjour to Le Touquet.

Our student trips are a terrific way to gain some real world flying experience, practise your navigation and radio, hone your pilot skills or hour build and as such are extremely popular so book your ‘seat’ asap

Explore dates and destinations

beyond PPL

So now you’ve passed your PPL, what’s next?

Well the sky is the limit! Some of our students continue on to commercials or perhaps think about adding a type rating to their flying portfolio. Others opt for advanced skills training; London Heli Lanes, confined area, flying over water etc. or simply fly for pleasure with frequent flyers signing up to ‘Club Elstree’ for a cost effective way to self fly hire. A few students have even gone on to purchase their own aircraft, a process which we can assist with and potentially even operate for you should you wish to.

Whatever you choose to do after your PPL we are here to train, advise and guide through your PPL and beyond!

Contact our Head of Training to find out more

ground school

Ground School is now hybrid

We now offer our FREE monthly ground school group session both in person at the flying school and via ZOOM in our virtual crew room.  This re-imagined ground school, born out of necessity due to COVID-19 has become popular for those who are unable to make it to the flying school. Don’t forget for more bespoke sessions ground school is available One-to-One with an instructor. Tag on to an existing booking or make use of those bad weather days.

Next FREE monthly Ground School in…

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Find out more about our Ground School

flying gallery