Helicopter Flying Handbook: FAA-H-8083-21A

by Federal Aviation Administration

This is the FAA’s primary resource for helicopter operations knowledge; it is essential reading for applicants preparing for the exams for private, commercial, or flight instructor pilot certificates with a helicopter class rating. In addition to a basic introduction to the helicopter, readers will find chapters on aerodynamics, flight controls, systems, performance, ground procedures, basic and advanced flight maneuvers, emergencies and hazards, attitude instrument flying, night operations, and aeronautical decision-making.

Previously titled Rotorcraft Flying Handbook, this new edition is designed for use by flight instructors, pilots preparing for a helicopter rating FAA Knowledge and Practical exam, and helicopter-rated pilots wishing to improve their knowledge.

Genres: Aviation, Nonfiction

194 pages, Paperback

First published May 26, 2000

Reviews

[rabbitprincess]

3.5 rounded up

[Nicholas]

This book gives the reader a solid chunk of knowledge that would help those beginning their flying careers or a quick overview of certain specifics for pilots.

[Anne Fox]

This is your typical FAA manual. Having spent time as a flight instructor, I'd say that's about the most accurate way to put it. As an editor, I found some editing problems (for instance, on page 1-4, the last line is repeated in the paragraph on rotor configurations, and in the first paragraph in Chapter 2, the description of what is seen in Figure 2-1 is not in accord with what Figure 2-1 actually shows). Another thing I found a bit disconcerting was the use of terms that had not been defined, and even references to parts of the helicopter that are never shown in a diagram.

But, those in the know also know that the contents of this book are what the FAA bases their knowledge test upon, so if you're planning on learning to fly a helicopter, it's a good idea to own this book.