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Helicopter illuminated on the ground during night rating training

Helicopter night rating

Develop confidence after dark.

Expand your flying privileges and develop essential night skills with flexible training throughout the year at Nottingham Airport.

AvailabilityAll year
LocationNottingham Airport
AdvantageNo restricted hours
TrainingTheory + flight

Before you begin

Night-rating
prerequisites.

Before training starts, we will review your licence, medical and logbook with you to confirm that the current requirements have been met.

LicenceHold an appropriate helicopter pilot licence
Flight timeAt least 100 hours in helicopters after licence issue
Pilot in commandAt least 60 hours as PIC in helicopters
Cross-countryAt least 20 hours of cross-country flight
MedicalAt least a Class 2 medical, or the applicable colour-sight requirement

Is this course for you?

For eligible helicopter pilots who want to fly after dark.

Important to understandWhy Arcus can train at night all year

Unlike many training locations limited by operating hours, Nottingham Airport has no restricted operating hours. This enables Arcus to plan helicopter night-rating training throughout the year, rather than relying only on the shortest winter days. Training remains subject to darkness, weather, aircraft and instructor availability.

What you will develop

  • Night visual references and aircraft control
  • Night circuits, take-offs and landings
  • Navigation and flight planning after dark
  • Threat management, illusions and operational judgement

Your course

A clear route,
personally supported.

  1. 01

    Confirm eligibility

    Review licence, medical, experience and the current night-rating prerequisites.

  2. 02

    Complete ground preparation

    Understand night planning, human factors, visual illusions, procedures and threats.

  3. 03

    Build practical skills

    Complete the required dual, navigation and circuit training.

  4. 04

    Add the rating

    Complete the course requirements and continue practising night operations safely.

Frequently asked questions

What people want
to know.

Requirements can change and individual circumstances differ. We will confirm the current position before you commit to training.

Can I complete a helicopter night rating in summer?+

Arcus can offer training throughout the year because Nottingham Airport has no restricted operating hours, although actual training remains subject to darkness, weather and availability.

Why add a night rating?+

It expands your privileges, builds valuable judgement and may remove the need for additional night instruction during a modular CPL(H) course.

How long does the course take?+

The syllabus and timing depend on current regulations, student experience, weather and scheduling. Speak to Arcus for the latest course structure.

Is night flying more difficult?+

It introduces different visual cues, planning needs and risks. Structured instruction develops the techniques and judgement needed to operate safely.

If I do the training in one helicopter, can I fly at night in another?+

Yes. The training can be applied on all helicopters.

Not sure where to start?

Talk to the
Arcus team.

Tell us about your experience, ambitions and availability. We will offer clear guidance and help you understand the most sensible next step, without pressure.