From oil rig platforms off the icy coast of Norway to line operations deep in the Brazilian jungle, our name is known among helicopter pilots the world over. As Hillsboro Aero Academy’s helicopter pilot training school in the USA, Hillsboro Heli Academy enjoys a global reputation among helicopter pilot education programs. Thousands of helicopter pilots from over 55 countries have chosen us to help them pursue their dream of flight. Our first-of-its-kind Joint EASA/FAA Program on the F-1 visa allows European students to earn the flight hours they need at considerable savings. Learn about our EASA/FAA program. >> NEW! Our new financing program from Meritize can help put the dream of a helicopter career within reach for students who qualify. Learn about financing options. >> Our global reputation and vast alumni network provides career path opportunities. Learn about our career paths. >> Our flight environment in the stunning and diverse Columbia River Gorge offers skill-building challenges. Learn about our flight environment. >> Our IS-BAO Stage 3 safety rating is proof of our leadership in safety, and our ACCSC accreditation demonstrates our commitment to student success in the workforce. Learn about our accreditation. >> Helicopter pilot training with a global reputation.
Why do so many helicopter careers take off from our helipad?
FAQs
Absolutely not! All it takes is dedication, commitment to study, and practice in the aircraft. Attending a helicopter flight school will help you learn the necessary skills required to fly a helicopter both through flight and ground instruction.
Our Helicopter Professional Pilot Program which includes the private pilot, instrument, commercial pilot and flight instructors courses is structured to take less than 15 months to complete if you are a full-time student on the flight schedule five times per week.
The FAA sets a minimum number of flight and ground hours that must be reached for each individual certificate or rating. Our courses ensure students meet those requirements before taking the FAA examination. We also structure our program to help students obtain 200 total flight hours to meet the SFAR 73 requirements to instruct in a Robinson R22 helicopter.

Jon Sevy
S-92 Captain for PHI
The training I received gave me a solid foundation of the basic knowledge and skills needed to be successful in my current position at PHI. Most importantly, though, I had so much fun! The community of Hillsboro students, instructors and staff is what makes it really work.
Hillsboro’s partnership with Portland Community College made it possible for Jon to work on his helicopter pilot education and college degree at the same time.