Mike Becker's Helicopter Handbook. Volume 1

Mike Becker's Helicopter Handbook was first published in 1986 and has been an essential training tool for student pilots, flight instructors and fully qualified pilots for more than 25 years. In 2023, this book was completely revised and expanded into two volumes: Basic Training (this release) and Advanced Training (due for release later in 2023). This volume focuses on basic flight training, supported by hundreds of colour illustrations and photos.  

Captain Mike Becker is one of Australia's most experienced helicopter instructors. With over 16,000 flight hours and a recipient of the "Captain John Ashton Award for Flight Standards and Aviation Safety" by the Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators of London. Mike's experience provides invaluable insights and real hands-on knowledge. Mike Becker started flying in 1984. His career has been as diverse as the number of helicopter types he has flown - from the smaller R22 to the larger B212 and Sikorski S62, and most types in between.  As Chief Pilot and Head of Training Operations, Mike has managed and operated a fleet of over 20 helicopters, employing a team of more than 30 instructors to deliver over 10,000 training hours annually.  

This book puts his skill and understanding of flight into clear, concise language and easily understood graphics. It tackles the complexities of helicopter flight and breaks these down into easy-to-understand principles. It is a practical learning tool and covers the preparation and air exercises required for basic helicopter flight.  

Built on years of experience, Mike Becker's Helicopter Handbook is a well-trusted and comprehensive text that is a must for the student pilot and flight instructor; it is an excellent resource for licenced pilots to brush up on their pilot skills or study for their instructor rating and is also an exciting text for any helicopter enthusiast. This book has been tried and tested in the classroom by hundreds of civil and military students worldwide who have benefited from the concise, informative and practical writing style.