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Leading Edge Flight Academy

Professional Helicopter Training in Bend, Oregon

Situated at 3,460 feet above sea level, our location offers ideal conditions for learning to fly a helicopter. Get firsthand experience with mountain operations and the challenges of navigating four weather seasons. With 300+ days of sunshine, we can fly seven days a week year-round and introduce our students to unique, real-world landing sites like pinnacles and ridgelines. And, thanks to our four season location, we can prepare our pilots for aircraft operations across various environmental conditions, from snow covered landing areas in the winter to high density altitudes in the summer. Very few schools have this level of diversity in conditions.

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Helicopter Instructors and Fleet

Helicopter Instructors and Fleet

Helicopter Instructors and Fleet

Meet our expert helicopter instructors and get to know the ins and outs of our training fleet.

Meet our expert helicopter instructors and get to know the ins and outs of our training fleet.

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Aviation Degree Program

Aviation Degree Program

Aviation Degree Program

Earn your Aviation Science Degree while completing your helicopter flight training with Central Oregon Community College (COCC). 

Earn your Aviation Science Degree while completing your helicopter flight training with Central Oregon Community College (COCC). 

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Flight Program Financing

Flight Program Financing

Flight Program Financing

Discover financing options to help you pay for helicopter training at Leading Edge Flight Academy.

Discover financing options to help you pay for helicopter training at Leading Edge Flight Academy.

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Elevate Your Skills

Advanced Helicopter Courses

Already a helicopter pilot? Leading Edge Flight Academy also provides add-ons for all ratings, including recurrent instrument and proficiency training. Learn to safely navigate mountain flying operations, expand your skill sets with night vision goggle (NVG) training, or gain sought-after external load skills. Our advanced helicopter courses provide the additional training you need to elevate your skills and advance your aviation career.

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Chart Your Course

Your Helicopter Pilot Career

Helicopter Career ROI
HELICOPTER PROGRAM PRICING

Flight Training Timeline

This schedule provides a true immersion into the aviation lifestyle, preparing students for the discipline and consistency required in commercial operations.

Immersive Flight Training

Designed for Full-Time Focus

Students enrolled in this immersive program train on-site five days a week, participating in multiple flight and ground events, simulator sessions, and ground lessons each week. It’s a structured, accelerated path designed for those ready to dedicate full-time effort to mastering every aspect of helicopter flight.

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mountain flying training

Book a Discovery Flight

Ready to take the first step toward your dream of flying helicopters?

Confirm your passion for flying helicopters by taking a Discovery Flight with a Certified Flight Instructor. This exhilarating adventure provides a taste of the excitement that helicopter flying can bring and a glimpse of what our flight school has to offer.

Book a Discovery Flight

Your Helicopter Pilot Career

GET STARTED

  • To maximize knowledge, skill retention, and progression, students should plan to be available at least five days per week and complete at least three training events per week. 
  • Your instructor will give you subject areas to study on your own time, so you’re prepared for all flight, ground, and simulator training events. 
  • Time and costs vary depending on the individual, but a reasonable starting estimate is $100k. Visit our financing page to learn more about your financing options.
  • The helicopter training program includes Private, Instrument, Commercial, Certified Flight Instructor, and Certified Flight Instructor Instrument ratings/certificates.
  • Program completion takes between 12 and 18 months, depending on schedule availability and rate of training progression.

Flight career development opportunities

Flight Career Development Opportunities

Leading Edge Flight Academy graduates who become LEFA instructors are recognized industry-wide for their talent and skill. We’ll work with you and our industry partners to provide job placement opportunities matching your interests and abilities.

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Aviation Partners

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Helicopter Training Podcast Episode 1

Your complete guide to starting your journey as a helicopter pilot. Whether you’re just curious or ready to begin, we’ll walk you through:

  • The steps to earning your pilot certificates
  • How to choose the right flight school and helicopter airframe
  • Funding options, including VA benefits, scholarships, and loans
  • Free resources and tips to get started today
  • Recommended supplies and books to set you up for success

Listen to the Helicopter Training Podcast

LEVI ROGERS

COCC Leading Edge Helicopter Program Graduate

Levi Rogers chose the COCC and Leading Edge helicopter training program because of the variety of career options available to graduates. During his time at LEFA, Levi obtained his Private certificate, Instrument rating, and Commercial certificate. We went on to obtain his CFI/CFII, flying as an instructor and running Part 91 tours through the end of his training program. By the time he graduated, Levi was interested in using his experience to pursue a few different career paths. From Grand Canyon helicopter tours to working off-shore and gas or utility operations, the sky is truly the limit for COCC/LEFA graduates. 

“This is an inclusive program, anybody could do it. It just depends on your work ethic… It takes hard work and you’ve gotta apply yourself.” — Levi

FEATURED STUDENT

JORDAN KUNHMUENCH

Fire & Short Haul Helicopter Pilot

Jordan works for JR Helicopters as an OAS-carded fire and short haul helicopter pilot flying AS-350b3 Astars. In that role, he fights fires and does search-and-rescue for Sequoia National Park in California. Over the winter months, he’s on-call for Part 135 commercial work. When asked about his experience at Leading Edge Flight Academy and COCC, he reports he couldn’t have asked for better training. According to Jordan, his time with LEFA prepared him to go above-and-beyond with both his flight training and knowledge-base for a career in aviation. 

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FAQs

Helicopter Flight Training and Advanced Certifications

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WHAT HELICOPTER RATINGS CAN I EARN AT LEADING EDGE FLIGHT ACADEMY?

Students can earn all major FAA helicopter certifications, including Private, Instrument, Commercial, Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and Certified Flight Instructor–Instrument (CFII). Advanced add-on courses such as mountain flying, external load operations, night vision goggle (NVG) training, and turbine transition are also available.

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HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO COMPLETE THE HELICOPTER TRAINING PROGRAM?

Typical program completion takes 18 to 24 months, depending on student availability and rate of progression. Students who commit to regular training—five days per week with multiple flight events—advance most efficiently. Students in our full-time, Intensive Course take between 12 and 18 months, depending on student availability and rate of progression. Those who go on to instruct can accumulate the required hours to transition into commercial, utility, or instructional helicopter careers in roughly 2.5 to 3 years.

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WHY IS CENTRAL OREGON IDEAL FOR HELICOPTER TRAINING?

At 3,460 feet above sea level, students train at high-elevation airports, mountain terrain, and four-season weather, including snow and high-density altitude conditions. This variety builds the skills needed for real-world helicopter operations.

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DOES LEADING EDGE OFFER ADVANCED HELICOPTER COURSES FOR CERTIFIED PILOTS?

Yes. Experienced pilots can enroll in advanced helicopter training, including mountain flying, night vision goggle (NVG) training, external load operations, and turbine transition courses, all taught by highly qualified instructors.

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“From day one of starting my flight training at Leading Edge Flight Academy, my goal has been to fly charter operations, specifically fire support and suppression.  The foundational training I received as a student as well as the continued education and mentorship as a flight instructor has truly set me up for success in the industry.  As a student pilot I appreciated the professionalism of all the instructors and how streamlined the whole pipeline was from private pilot to CFII. My time as a flight instructor for the company was very rewarding, helping students accomplish their goals and seeing them succeed was definitely the best part of the job. After instructing I moved to Las Vegas for a tour pilot position with Papillon Helicopters. After one year of flying in the Grand Canyon I will be returning to Leading Edge Aviation to work on the charter side of the company. I’m looking forward to this coming fire season and living in beautiful Central Oregon again!”

Kris Karnik

Kris Karnik
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“Training at Leading Edge Flight Academy was key to preparing me for a successful career flying helicopters in Alaska’s oil and gas industry. The school’s location in Bend gave me the opportunity to learn how to handle the fast-changing weather conditions typical of Alaska, with a strong focus on quick decision-making and situational awareness. The chiefs are always approachable and have their office doors open, creating a supportive learning environment. The instructors’ vast experience, combined with the school’s strong network of alumni and industry connections, played a major role in helping me land my job. I’m incredibly grateful for the skills and opportunities that Leading Edge Flight Academy provided, which set me up for success in such a demanding and dynamic environment.”

Jackson Howery

Jackson Howery
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“Leading Edge Aviation has always been a very good source of well-trained professionals that work hard and make our customers very happy. TEMSCO currently employs several Leading Edge Aviation pilots who are at various stages of experience from 1st year tour pilots to contract pilots, and we are very happy with all of them.”

Eric Eichner | Chief Pilot | TEMSCO Helicopters

Eric Eichner | Chief Pilot | TEMSCO Helicopters
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“I want to thank all the instructors and staff at Leading Edge Flight Academy for providing us with top notch pilots over the years. Some of these pilots have stayed with us long term and have been upgraded from SIC to Captain positions in the Bell 212 for our oil and gas operations here in Alaska. The high skill sets and strong work ethics they have learned at Leading Edge Flight Academy has made this partnership immensely valuable to our operations here at Hilcorp Energy.”

Captain Trevor Piersee | Hilcorp Energy

Captain Trevor Piersee | Hilcorp Energy
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“After completing my training, and three years of instructing at Leading Edge, I went on to fly tours in Southeast Alaska with TEMSCO in the AS350 B2. After two seasons with TEMSCO, I took a fire pilot position with Heli-1 in the AS350 B3e. I’m currently back flying for Leading Edge fighting wildfire and conducting prescribed burn operations for the USFS in the Bell 407GX.”

Alex Cristiano

Alex Cristiano
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“I started with LEA in 2007 as a flight instructor. There were two R-22’s, an R-44, and the Jet Ranger (316CF). After a couple years of instructing the company purchased two L-Model 206’s and we began the hunt for fire contracts. I believe it was 2010 or ‘11 when we got our first contract in Miles City, MT when I began my fire career. It was around that time I became the chief instructor and was in that roll until 2013 when I moved on. I began working for Hillcrest Aircraft in 2013 flying a 206L4 and in 2014 was transitioned to the 407. In 2016 I was fortunate to get transitioned into the Bell 205 flying rappel contracts.  Have been back and forth between the 407 and 205 ever since. In December of 2023 I became Chief pilot for Hillcrest Aircraft.”

Brandon Knox

Brandon Knox
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“Leading Edge Flight Academy consistently produces pilots who stand out. They arrive with not only the necessary technical skillset but, more importantly, the right professional attitude. Having a strong relationship with Leading Edge makes my job significantly easier. I have found that pilots coming from their program possess a strong foundation that allows them to flourish in our fast-paced, dynamic environment. Attending and instructing at a reputable flight school like Leading Edge truly provides the essential baseline for a successful flying career. I highly recommend their program to any aspiring pilot or organization looking for top-tier talent.”

David Oest | Chief Pilot | Papillon Helicopters

David Oest | Chief Pilot | Papillon Helicopters
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“I have recently left Maverick and got a job flying EMS with Reach Air Medical.”

Jared Skaugstad

Jared Skaugstad
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“I instructed at LEFA from 2018-2021. I then went to tours at Maverick, then on to EMS with Sanford Health. Aside from the 22/44 I have time in the 206, 130 and currently the 145 as a SPIFR role. I miss my time at LEFA, it was the foundation I needed to move forward. My advice? Just keep working hard and flying safe, and opportunities will come. And don’t forget to network.”

Cole Schwerin

Cole Schwerin
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“Currently, I am a pilot with Air and Marine Operations as an Air Interdiction Agent with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Leading Edge set the foundation for my career goals. The wealth of knowledge I learned while at LEFA is still with me to this day. Leading Edge Flight Academy helped me get to where I am now in many ways! First, while a student, I worked Line Service and then in Dispatch, where I learned aircraft scheduling, maintenance coordination, and the importance of ground support. Then, when hired as a flight instructor, I had great mentors who taught me the valuable information that I now use flying every day!”

Mario Armendariz

Mario Armendariz
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“I am flying glacier tours out of Skagway Alaska for TEMSCO helicopters. We fly the AS350B2.”

Jack Carney

Jack Carney
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“I work for PJ Helicopters in Northern California and have been there for four years now! I started flying a Bell 407 for firefighting and have since transitioned into power line and wire work, along with Human External Cargo (HEC) operations. I enjoy the variety of work we do and hope to continue growing within the company.”

Sami Gotschall

Sami Gotschall
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“My stage check prepared me for the checkride because the ground was far more in depth. I found my weak points in my knowledge and was able to focus more on them before my checkride. The flight gave me a good example of what a checkride will feel like.”

Christopher Woerner

Christopher Woerner
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“Chris was an amazing CFI and Greg also gave me some great tips on becoming an EMS pilot. He also gave me real life situations on my final check ride to make me think before taking actions. I wanted to say to you and your Team was all Outstanding and very professional at what Leading Edge Academy stands for cut above the rest!”

Dwane Means

Dwane Means
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It was a really fun experience to be able to help ferry the MD500 across the country and fly through extensive airspace. It’s one of those things that, as an instructor, you always talk about and teach but not everyone has done it. I’m truly grateful to have had the opportunity. It’s definitely something I look forward to passing on to another person one day. It was nice to fly one of the coolest helicopters around too, so I can’t complain!

Cody Davis

Cody Davis
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“I work for JR Helicopters as an OAS-carded fire and short haul helicopter pilot flying AS-350b3 Astars. I fight fires and do search-and-rescue for Sequoia National Park in California. In the winter months, I am on-call for Part 135 commercial work. I couldn’t have asked for better training than I received at Leading Edge Aviation and COCC. They prepared me above-and-beyond with both my flight training and knowledge-base for my career in aviation. On top of that, I got to do it all in amazing Central Oregon!”

Jordan Kunhmuench

Jordan Kunhmuench
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“I’m having a great time and look forward to the rest of my time learning here!!”

Andriy Wybaczynsky

Andriy Wybaczynsky
“
I’ve obtained my Private certificate, Instrument rating, and Commercial certificate. I went on to obtain my CFI/CFII, flying as an instructor and running Part 91 tours through the end of my training program. By the time I graduated, I was interested in using my experience to pursue a few different career paths. From Grand Canyon helicopter tours to working off-shore and gas or utility operations, the sky is truly the limit for COCC/LEFA graduates.

Levi Rogers

Levi Rogers
“
Leading Edge Flight Academy, in partnership with Central Oregon Community College, is very happy to announce the new Instrument Rating Scholarship. We are excited to be joining the list of Whirly Girl contributors and help advance women pilots in the industry. The recipient will receive the required training for a helicopter instrument rating, gaining the invaluable skills necessary to become a better, safer pilot. At Leading Edge, we instill our values of safety and professionalism with each student we graduate through a course; helping the aviation community grow, one success story at a time. Director of Flight School Operations

Nicole Wolf

Nicole Wolf
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Air Methods Corporation provides advanced air ambulance services as a flying ICU (Intensive Care Unit). The crew consists of one nurse, one paramedic, and the pilot. We respond at the request of EMS to rural scenes, and also transfer patients between hospitals. Our base in located in Osage Beach, Missouri. Air Methods has over 330 bases in 48 states. The education I received from Leading Edge and COCC prepared me in all aspects of flying, from air traffic-controlled environments to rural off-airport operations in the Cascade Mountain range. Flying in the mountains of Oregon prepared me perfectly to be an air ambulance pilot (now) and a bush pilot in Alaska (my previous 4 years experience). 

Will Lawrence

Will Lawrence
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“What would you have liked different in training? Nothing comes to mind, compared to the previous school where I did my primary training, Leading Edge is on such a higher scale of professionalism with safety a top priority, I have no complaints!”

David Cloutier

David Cloutier
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“I trained at Leading Edge from 2009 to 2016 and set a goal early on to fly Helicopter Air Ambulance. After graduating, I flew tours with Papillon in the AS350 and EC130, then moved on to Bristow flying the Bell 407 and Sikorsky S-76C++. I spent time with Guardian Flight flying HAA in the AS350 before joining LifeFlight Network, where I currently fly the AW119 and EC135. My goal when I started was to be part of a team that helps people, using my skills where they matter most. I am fortunate to be where I am and very thankful for it.”

Dustin Ballard

Dustin Ballard