Business Details
34 Years
experience
Your Premier Helicopter Flight Training School in Hawaii
Mauna Loa Helicopters has been a leader in helicopter flight training since 1992, offering FAA Part 141-certified programs across two Hawaiian islands. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our low student-to-instructor ratio, annual recurrent instructor training, and a curriculum designed to prepare pilots for global careers. With bases in Kona on the Big Island and Honolulu on Oahu, we provide access to diverse terrain and airspace, including active volcanoes, mountain ridges, and Honolulu International Airport's Class B airspace. Our graduates consistently secure positions in demanding roles worldwide, from air ambulance operations to offshore oil support, thanks to our reputation for rigorous training and industry-aligned instruction. We maintain a fleet of 15 aircraft and specialize in advanced training modules like external load operations, high-density altitude turbine transitions, and advanced autorotations.Our instructors, many of whom are former graduates, bring localized expertise in Hawaiian weather patterns and terrain, ensuring students develop both technical proficiency and environmental awareness. The school supports career development through job placement assistance and maintains partnerships with employers across the aviation sector. Our training philosophy balances the resources of a large institution with the personalized attention of a boutique school, allowing flexible scheduling seven days a week. Beyond pilot education, we offer helicopter tours, charter services, and specialized utility work using our Robinson R66 helicopter, which is equipped for sling load operations and aerial surveys. Our dual focus on education and operational services creates a comprehensive aviation ecosystem that prepares pilots for real-world challenges.
Services
Helicopter Flight Training
Fixed Wing Training
Helicopter Tours
Charter Services
Photo Flights
Aerial Survey
Discovery Flights
Utility Work
External Load Training
Instrument Rating Courses
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of FAA Part 141-certified helicopter training experience
- Our graduates secure aviation jobs globally through industry connections
- We maintain a low 3:1 student-to-instructor ratio for personalized training
- Our Robinson R66 utility helicopter supports advanced sling load operations
- We provide training in Hawaii's unique Class B airspace and volcanic terrain
Associations and certifications
- FAA Part 141
- FAA Part 135
- OAS (Office of Aviation Services)
What people say
Exceptional training experience
Personalized instruction
Dynamic training environment
Challenging career preparation
Memorable island tours
Services
Helicopter Flight Training
Our FAA Part 141-certified helicopter training program prepares pilots for global careers through advanced modules in external load operations, high-density altitude transitions, and complex airspace navigation. Students train in Hawaii's unique environment featuring active volcanoes, mountain ridges, and Honolulu International Airport's Class B airspace. The curriculum combines technical proficiency with environmental awareness, supported by a 3:1 student-to-instructor ratio and career placement assistance.
Fixed Wing Training
We offer FAA-certified fixed-wing training programs for private, multi-engine, and commercial certifications. Pilots train in Hawaii's diverse airspace using modern aircraft fleets, gaining experience in coastal navigation, mountain flying, and busy airport operations at Honolulu International. The program emphasizes safety protocols, instrument flying techniques, and transition training for career advancement in commercial aviation sectors.
Helicopter Tours
Our scenic helicopter tours showcase Hawaii's natural wonders including active volcanoes, Na Pali Coast waterfalls, and black sand beaches. Passengers experience doors-off flying for optimal photography, with routes covering Oahu's North Shore, Kauai's Waimea Canyon, and the Big Island's volcanic landscapes. Tours combine adventure with educational commentary about Hawaii's geology and ecosystems from experienced aviation guides.
Utility Work Services
Using our Robinson R66 helicopter, we perform specialized utility work including 700-pound sling load transportation, power line maintenance, and aerial surveying. Our Part 135/OAS-qualified pilots execute precision operations in challenging environments with doors-off configurations for maximum visibility. Projects benefit from our comprehensive insurance coverage and safety-first approach to complex aerial tasks across Hawaii's diverse terrain.
Discovery Flights
These hands-on discovery flights provide first-time helicopter experiences with pre-flight instruction and in-cockpit controls operation. Participants learn aircraft inspection procedures, practice hovering techniques, and receive personalized guidance from certified instructors. The program serves as both recreational adventures and career exploration opportunities for potential aviation professionals considering formal training pathways.
Questions
What helicopter training programs do you offer?
We provide FAA Part 141-certified helicopter training including private, commercial, instrument ratings, CFI/CFII certifications, external load operations, and advanced autorotations.
Do you offer fixed-wing aircraft training?
Yes, we offer fixed-wing training programs for private certificates, multi-engine ratings, and commercial certifications using modern aircraft fleets in Hawaii's diverse airspace.
What makes Hawaii a good training location?
Hawaii's varied terrain includes active volcanoes, mountain ridges, and Honolulu's Class B airspace, providing one of the most comprehensive helicopter training environments globally.
Are financing options available for training?
We offer financing programs and scholarship opportunities to help students manage training costs for both helicopter and fixed-wing pilot certification programs.
Do you provide job placement assistance after graduation?
Yes, our career services team actively connects graduates with aviation employers worldwide through our established industry network and job placement partnerships.
What utility helicopter services do you provide?
Our Robinson R66 supports utility work including sling load transportation, aerial surveying, power line maintenance, and environmental monitoring with 700-pound lifting capacity and doors-off configurations.
