Those are the words that came to my mind when I got off the trial instructional helicopter flight today. I seem to be living in that stage of my life where I fall in love with every damn hobby I pick up! Helicopter flight is definitely no different and it just so happen to be the most expensive one too!
So how did this started? Only a month ago, I went to check out 12 Apostles down here in Melbourne with Kuanie’s relatives. And what do you know, there was a helicopter tour on offer for just $75. I couldn’t help myself and got on..
It’s not the first time I’ve been to 12 Apostles, but it’s certainly the first time I’ve seen it from the sky like this….
The view was just awesome! Even though it was a short 10 minutes flight, it was definitely the best way to view 12 Apostles!
As for me, the next thing that ran through my head was, “How cool would it be if I could fly this damn thing myself!?”..
So here I am at Moorabin Airport.. having just completed a half-an-hour flight around with my instructor, taking some control of the “stick” (they call it “cyclic”). I’ve just flew past Albert Park where Formula 1 took place last week, and saw the whole Melbourne CBD from the sky. Once again, I was awed. I couldn’t show you any pictures, since I can’t fly the helicopter and take photos at the same time!!
To put things in perspective though, it cost about $7000 to complete a 4-weeks Snowboard instructor course in Japan on a snowboard that cost perhaps $1000.
In contrast, to complete a Helicopter Private Pilot License (PPL), it will cost me roughly $30,000. Hmm.. how about the equipment? Well, a nice little Eurocopter EC-120 like this…
… will only set me back AUD$2 million!
Maybe I’ll stick to snowboarding for now….
Did you get to control the collective and pedals as well?
And don’t forget to get a parking space for your chopper.
AND think of all the airfare and time you can save by flying your own chopper around.
No, unfortunately I only get control of the cyclic only for the trial instructional flight. It was more than enough for me to handle!
The parking space can just be my backyard! Provided my neighbors don’t complain about it.. 🙂
Love your site man keep up the good work