Congratulations to Chris O’Dwyer who recently completed his Commercial Pilot License Test! Well done Chris!

Congratulations to Chris O’Dwyer who recently completed his Commercial Pilot License Test! Well done Chris!

Chris O’Dwyer is the most recent Professional Helicopter Services (PHS) student to pass his Commercial Pilot License (CPL) test. We sat down with him to understand his journey towards obtaining his CPL.

What was the most memorable part of the flight training course?

Chris: Going solo for the first time and getting the handshake from (Co-CEO) Brett Newman at the end of the commercial flight test.

Why did you choose PHS?

Chris: I chose PHS because it is one of the largest helicopter training schools in Australia and provides a lot of opportunities for pilots that are starting out.

Which machines did you fly during training?

Chris: I did most of my time in the Robinson R22 and also on the Robinson R44 along the way as well.

Did you volunteer at any company events and if so which one was your favourite?

Chris: I volunteered at all the events that came up and my favourite was the Melbourne Cup Carnival. I loved seeing so many helicopter movements and the large-scale planning that needs to go into these events first-hand was awesome to be a part of.

Where do you hope your newly found commercial license takes you?

Chris: I’d love to start off conducting scenic flights and building up time on bigger turbine aircraft.

Have you always been interested in aviation or is this a newfound interest?

Chris: Prior to starting my commercial license studies I worked as a Carpenter and Project Manager. While I enjoyed those jobs it wasn’t until I had a trial helicopter flight that I really got a taste for wanting to fly for a living and do something not many others can say they’ve done.

What is the biggest challenge you faced during your training?

Chris: Finding the time to complete the theory and flying portions while balancing full-time work and having room for a personal life as well!

Any advice for people who want to pursue a helicopter pilot license?

No matter what challenges you may face along the way completing your license will be one of the most rewarding things you can do.

Thanks again Chris for your time and hope to see you soon in the skies!