YOUR PATH TO THE COCKPIT

PPL(H) Tests

All information about the PPL(H) exams: content of the theoretical exam, practical skill tests, prerequisites and procedure.

PPL(H) — Tests

The examinations consist of two broad areas:

  1. Theoretical examination (multiple-choice)

  2. Practical test (skill test)

The tests are carried out in Germany according to the specifications of EASA And they are the ones who are responsible. Federal Aviation Authority decreased.

Theoretical test for the PPL(H)


The theory exam covers several areas of expertise and is carried out in the form of multiple-choice tests. The questions are based on the EASA questionnaire. Depending on the federal state, it is checked on the computer or with test forms.

Typical content:

  • Basics of flying and aerodynamics

  • Navigation & Meteorology

  • Aircraft law & Operational procedures

  • Helicopter engineering, engine science & Instruments

  • Human performance

  • Radio navigation and aeronautical communications

A passed theoretical examination is a prerequisite for admission to practical Skill test.

Practical test (skill test)


The skill test is carried out by an officially recognized examiner. During the test flight, applicants shall demonstrate that they can operate the helicopter safely and in accordance with the rules.

Typical test contents:

  • Pre-flight inspection & Flight preparation

  • Normal flight, turns, climbing & Descent

  • Take-off, hovering and landing exercises

  • Emergency procedures (e.g. Autorotation, system failures

  • VFR navigation

  • Compliance with airspace structures and radio procedures

Overview: PPL(H) test contents


Range Contents Form of examination
Air Law (Air Law) Rules, airspace, licences, duties of the pilot Theory (MC)
Aircraft General Knowledge Engineering, systems, instruments, helicopter specifications Theory (MC)
Flight performance & Flight planning Mass & Centre of gravity, performance diagrams, fuel planning Theory (MC)
Human performance Physiology, perception, stress & Boundaries Theory (MC)
Meteorology weather, maps, fronts, clouds, dangers Theory (MC)
Navigation Map work, course calculation, radio navigation Theory (MC)
Operational procedures Standard procedures, security, communications Theory (MC)
Airborne radio communications (BZF required) Radio telephony, speech groups, procedures Theory / Practical
Skill test Flight preparation, manoeuvres, emergency procedures, navigation Practical in the helicopter

Fun facts about the PPL(H) exam


  • Theory and practice can take place in different places.

  • The theoretical test must be passed in full before the skill test can be taken.

  • The skill test will usually take place on the type of helicopter on which the student has been trained (e.g. Robinson R22, R44, Cabri G2.

  • The validity of the existing theory usually lies with 24 months until the Skill Test (depending on the state authority).

  • For admission to the examination, a valid Medical class 2 and evidence of minimum flight hours is required.