Important Things To Do Before you Commence your Study
Getting an Aviation Reference Number (ARN)
Before you attempt our course you should apply for a CASA Aviation Reference Number known as an ARN. This number will identify you right through your entire aviation career. You will require an ARN before you can sit any of the CASA PEXO Exams and having this number before you arrive for the course will prevent any delays in booking your CASA exams.
If you haven’t previously had an ARN issued, you will receive one as part of the process of undergoing your first Aviation Medical Examination.
Getting an Aviation Medical Examination
Before you get started on any of the training required to gain your CPL(H) we would strongly recommend you undergo a full Aviation Medical Examination. Investing in a medical before you start training is a very wise thing to do.
While an average student pilot should have no trouble passing a medical, there have been student pilots in the past who found they had previously undiscovered medical conditions or problems that needed to be fixed before they were allowed to fly. It is much better to find out if you have a problem before you start training, rather than after you have invested any time or money.
Choosing Your Flying School
After completing your theory with AFT, choosing the right practical flying school is the next important next step in your aviation journey. To make this easier, we’ve compiled a Helicopter Flying School Directory of flying schools across Australia.
Obtaining your Commercial Helicopter Licence is a major milestone which marks the beginning of a career built on continuous learning and experience. The choices you make during your training, and particularly where and how you train, can have a lasting influence on your future opportunities.
Helicopters operate across an exceptionally diverse range of industries, including executive transport, emergency services, offshore support, agriculture, mustering, tourism, heavy lifting, survey work, and scientific research in some of the world’s most remote environments. Each role requires specialised skills and targeted training, making early career planning an important part of your development as a professional pilot.
Because flight training is a significant personal investment, selecting the right flying school deserves careful consideration. Visiting schools in person allows you to assess their facilities, meet the Chief Flying Instructor, and experience the learning environment firsthand. A supportive atmosphere, consistent instruction, and instructors who take a genuine interest in your progress can make a meaningful difference to both your training and career outcomes.
Advanced Flight Theory provides CPL theory training for many of Australia’s leading helicopter flying schools. With instructors who have collectively taught more than 20,000 pilots, AFT offers depth of experience, strong industry connections, and purpose-built ground school facilities designed to support effective learning.
High-quality theory instruction forms the foundation of safe, confident, and capable flying. Delivered in a professional learning environment, it provides essential knowledge that supports your flying training and prepares you for a successful and rewarding helicopter career.
