Pilot stories
Flying is personal. From first trial lessons and Private Pilots Licences to advanced training, type ratings and commercial careers, every pilot arrives with a different ambition. These are their experiences of learning, flying and being part of the Arcus community.
Steve GArcus has been instrumental in refining and developing my skills as a newly qualified pilot. Their very patient and highly experienced instructors offer exceptional advice and input. While other flight schools can appear stuffy, Arcus provides a relaxed and welcoming environment in which to learn—with the additional benefit of social activities and fly-outs. I cannot recommend them highly enough!
Oscar BI joined Arcus shortly after completing my PPL and immediately knew I was in the right place, surrounded by the right people. Since then, I’ve completed multiple type ratings with them, studied for my ATPL using their facilities and gone on to achieve my CPL—something I once thought was out of reach. With their support, guidance and instruction, I’m proud to now be flying the AW-109 in a permanent VIP charter role.
Giles GI arrived at Arcus as a fixed-wing pilot—which is to say, I arrived with opinions about helicopters. Spoiler: I was wrong about most of them. Jamie, David and James didn’t just teach me to fly; they converted a sceptic into an evangelist, and I keep coming back for more.
My journey from the R22 to my R44 type rating could have been a gruelling checklist of procedures and air time. Instead, it was genuinely exceptional. What struck me immediately was that every lesson had a clear purpose—no filler, no box-ticking. The professionalism was unwavering, the knowledge exhaustive and the safety culture was so embedded in every session that it felt less like a rule and more like a shared commitment.
But here’s what sets Arcus apart: they made it fun. Real, engaging, infectious fun. I still return regularly for additional training and aircraft leasing, and each visit reinforces why. These three instructors have that rare gift of taking something technically demanding and transforming it into an experience you genuinely want to repeat. Whether you’re pursuing this for the love of flying or chasing the commercial licence, you need instructors who understand both the science and the soul of what they do. Arcus has all of it.
Andrew TArcus has truly created a winning formula. The friendly environment, relaxed approach to training and availability of self-fly hire helicopters make it a fantastic place to learn and grow. Like many others, I felt nervous when I first arrived with no experience. Now, years later, I’ve secured my licence and Arcus feels like a second home. It’s rare to find everything under one roof, and it feels much more like a club than just a training centre.
Yvonne CArcus is a very friendly and professional school. Its high standard of instruction, well-maintained helicopters and endless enthusiasm make flying enjoyable and sociable. I have no hesitation in recommending the team.
Sarah MArcus Helicopters is super friendly, very accommodating and efficient in getting you through either PPL or PC flights. Highly recommended; I wouldn’t hesitate to use them again.
David LBrilliant instructors: professional and polite. It’s a great place to start learning to fly a helicopter. All the staff are super helpful, friendly, professional and well organised. There is a good range of well-maintained helicopters, and the hospitality is second to none—fantastic! I would definitely recommend Arcus Helicopters for its professionalism, friendliness and service.
Phil DI regularly fly an EC120 and use Arcus Helicopters and, honestly, they couldn’t be more accommodating. Whether it’s last-minute fuel stops or helping with moving the aircraft when needed, the team always goes above and beyond. Nothing ever feels like too much trouble, which is exactly what you want in this kind of operation.
The atmosphere is incredibly friendly and welcoming. Even if you just drop in for a cup of tea, you’re made to feel part of the place. It’s clear they genuinely care about their customers and build proper relationships, not just transactions. If you’re thinking about learning to fly or just want a professional and easy-going helicopter base, I’d highly recommend them.
Olivia TI absolutely love Arcus! I have spent a lot of time there over the last two years and it feels like a second home to me. From my first trial lesson in March to passing my PPL in July, it felt like a full-time experience, but I loved every minute and made friends I will have for life. I just can’t recommend Arcus Helicopters enough. Huge congratulations to David and Jamie for creating such a fantastic environment.
David PProfessional and approachable throughout, the team brings a wealth of experience and contacts for anyone considering getting into the world of helicopters. I can’t thank Jamie, David and the rest of the team at Arcus Helicopters enough for helping to make a childhood dream a reality. They have taken on the challenge of “teaching an old dog new tricks” and made it fun.
Mark HThe team at Arcus are a breath of fresh air. They are always trying to make my training and flying experiences easy and friendly. It’s a joy to be able to use their helicopters and stay licensed without faff or hassle. Without doubt the best flight school I have been at.
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