Welcome!


Electrocution has provided support information for PC technicians (and pilots) for over forty years.

Although used by regulatory authorities and recommended for at least 2 MScs and many college courses, our books are presented in a common-sense format that is entirely suitable for non-technical readers, and are updated constantly.

"This series of four books is clear, readable and contain many useful illustrations. The case studies clearly demonstrate the problems faced by network administrators and provide easily workable solutions, and provide the reader with an excellent grounding in Network Systems and Communications. They have proved invaluable to the teaching of the M.Sc. course in Data Communications at Kingston University and we recommend them to all students following similar courses of study."

Yours Faithfully,

Dr Andrew Curley BSc, MSc, PhD, AMIEE
Martin Tunicliffe BEng, PhD, AMIEE, CPhys, MInstP

"The computer book of the month is The Bios Companion by Phil Croucher. Long-time readers of this column will recall I have recommended his book before. This tells you everything you ought to know about the BIOS in your system. Post codes, options, upgrades, you name it. Years ago, I called an earlier edition of this invaluable and I see no reason to change my view. Recommended."

Jerry Pournelle, Byte Magazine

Our aviation books are used by many regulatory authorities as a reference for generating pilot exam questions, as used by Caledonian Advanced Pilot Training for their approved theoretical knowledge courses.

"One of our folks really likes the CARS in Plain English. You give good, practical explanations in your helicopter book. Thanks again, it's nice to see current books. You have a lot of good information there, I don't know how you get it all, but it is very well done!"

Jack Wisnicki, Transport Canada

"You have an exceptionally impressive body of work. I don't think I've ever seen such favourable non-fiction reviews as those you receive for your ground study material. I'm reading through Professional Helicopter Pilot Studies on Google Books at the moment; thanks to the clear and entertaining style it's quite a page-turner."

RC

"As an aside, I would like to mention how much I've enjoyed using your study materials so far. I utilised the 'Professional Helicopter Pilot Studies' book during my CPL course and then the Bell 206 book during my endorsement and subsequent annual PPCs. The concise yet thorough information contained within the book helps reduce some of the stress linked to being put under the proverbial 'microscope'! I've just started working my way through the AS350 book but am having to hide it from my colleagues for fear that they may borrow it on a permanent basis!"

Simon W

The Helicopter Pilot's Handbook


One problem with helicoptering is that there are virtually no flying clubs, at least of the sort that exist for fixed wing, so pilots get very little chance to swap stories, unless they meet in a muddy field somewhere, waiting for their passengers. As a result, the same mistakes are being made and the same lessons learnt separately instead of being shared - it's comforting sometimes to know that you're not the only one to inflate the floats by accident! Even when you do get into a school, there are still a couple of things they don't teach you, namely that aviation runs on paperwork, and how to get a job, including interview techniques, etc - flying the aircraft is actually less than a third of the job. Another is that nobody really tells you anything, either about the job you have to do (from the customer) or how to do it (the company) - you will always be up against the other guy who managed to do it last week! Sure, there will be training, but, even in the best companies, this will be relatively minimal. This book is an attempt to correct the above situations by gathering together as much information as possible for helicopter pilots, old and new, professional and otherwise, in an attempt to explain the why, so the how will become easier (you will be so much more useful if you know what the customer is trying to achieve). In short, this is all the stuff nobody taught me - every tip and trick I have learnt has been included.

"I finally got a chance to look through your book. It's fantastic! I especially like the way you've covered every conceivable occupation an aspiring, or experienced pilot is considering in his/her future."

Conway Brown

"...found a copy of your Helicopter Pilot's Handbook. Some people would not believe the stuff in it, but it is all right on. This should be mandatory reading before anyone is allowed to get a licence."

Doug P

"Great publication which will help bridge the gaping chasm between licencing training and a job. I wish I had this background information when I came up here!"

John D

"It is just a great book! The other book I often recommend is The Art and Science of Flying Helicopters by Shawn Coyle. I think your Helicopter Pilots Handbook makes an excellent companion to Shawn's book. The info on external loads was very helpful and I don't know of any references that have nearly as much info in one place on that subject. Also, the snow operations material was very helpful. Many additional other little hints that were excellent and made the book worth far more than its' cost!"

Brad Pattison

"The Helicopter Pilot's Handbook... is a good read - simple, easy to digest, without numbing the brain, while giving you exactly what you need to know."

Rotor & Wing

"Whether you have 200 or 10,000 hours, it is all well worth a read through. The book supplies the answers to many of the questions new commercial helicopter pilots should be asking themselves."

Mike Buckley, BALPA Log

Book £29.95 Mono

Add to Cart

Book £79.95 Colour

Add to Cart

Book £95 Colour Hardcover

Add to Cart

PDF

BUY NOW

Single Pilot CRM


For aeroplane and helicopter pilots! The material is based on the author's Single Pilot CRM courses, with lots more thrown in!

"I have nothing but praise. It really is a timely piece of work. I’ve been through the United Airlines CRM program, and a couple of corporate programs. None of them are geared towards the single pilot environment, and I’ve always been suspicious that the single pilot environment is a lot bigger than the multi-pilot environment. I really like the phrase ‘Company Resource Management’ that you suggest. It’s a whole lot more appropriate for what we do in the helicopter world."

Mike Fergione

"Veritair/Cardiff previously enjoyed CRM cover as part of British International and last Monday was the first time since we had “escaped” that airline world that we had used a different source of CRM Training. Let me say immediately the previous BI courses was extremely thorough but had little real relevance to the operation of a small JAR Ops Operator. Perhaps constructive if I was to advise that the course based on Phil Coucher’s model/syllabus was first rate! Areas of particular value not covered before included “Captaincy”, an area neglected in recent years by the civil training world. Not only that, but a direct tie up was made during the course between “Captaincy” and the day to day relevancy/role that pilots often working on their own in a smaller non airline operator. All good valuable stuff not covered before on previous courses. Airline/multi crew type courses (are) often of dubious value to a small operator’s pilots. Issues ranging from an awareness to corporate responsibility to evaluating risk far better covered. Bearing in mind that the three Veritair pilots present (plus an air crewman) none of which had ever been through a military/training environment which increasingly will be the case these days. Thus “Captaincy” was never really addressed I suspect. As an employer with corporate responsibility I see significant value to the inclusion of awareness to the whole area of “Captaincy” that simply qualifying to fly an aircraft never touches upon in training generally. All told my team left the room better and safer individuals. The course/syllabus was truly worth praise. Perhaps you will allow me to consider myself a “doubting Thomas” converted to CRM!"

Julian Verity
Managing Director

"I read the CRM single pilot in the last couple of days. Quite Good...especially the Physiological part is very good, even for basic health.

"I must say this, that anyone planning to be a pilot should read the CRM first, before even taking lessons, as well as the Operational Flying handbook. I have interviewed a lot of flight schools, and many I would not attend. I wanted to get the full understanding of what it is all about before I started taking any lessons, and some basic knowledge so I could help choose a school."

Dean Phillips

"We'll also take 10 more of your Single Pilot CRM book, a book we've really grown to like."

Harv's Air Service, Winnipeg

Mono £14.95

Add to Cart

Colour £29.95

Add to Cart

PDF

BUY NOW

The Bell 206 Book


This book reflects the author's extensive experience, both on type and training others to fly it. It contains many operating tips and facts that you don't normally find out until you have flown the machine for several hundred hours.

"On a happy note, I finally got my PPC done on the 206. The new 206 book was great for getting me spot on for the numbers, actually was complimented for my ability to retain all the VNE’s in different flight configurations. This is a book that I’ll be referencing on a regular basis."

Darren Keast

"The book is just what I have been looking for and very helpful indeed, which is why I have bought copies for all my students. V hard for lay pilots to work out the 206 from the POH alone. Should have written it myself."

Iain Hatfield

"Hi Phil, I just got the 206 book and I have to say what a great read it appears to be! It has only been in my hands for five minutes and I am already stuck in it! Keep up the good work,you are a great inspiration."

Jon Clifford

"I thought it well written and thought-out without just being a copy of everything that's out there."

Transport Canada Inspector

Mono $24.95
£14.95

Add to Cart

Colour $74.95
£49.95

Add to Cart

PDF

BUY NOW

Avionics In Plain English


The rate of change in the field of avionics is so fast that even the legislators are struggling to keep up with it. With new digital cockpits, it is getting to the stage that, if your microwave still flashes 12:00, you will have no business flying a modern aircraft! The majority of twin-engined (and many single-engined) machines now have complex autopilots, glass cockpits and navigation equipment, possibly including Flight Management Systems (FMS). They are now even fitted to training helicopters.

This book originated with a request from the RCAF for training materials for engineers, but curious pilots whose training syllabus did not include avionics, and who would like to know a little more will find it useful as well.

Mono £49.95

Add to Cart

PDF

BUY NOW

Air Navigation With The Jeppesen CR-3


An advanced workbook for this popular flight computer, together with the background knowledge required to use it effectively.

Mono £29.95

Add to Cart

Colour £79.95

Add to Cart

PDF

BUY NOW

The (EASA) Instrument Rating


The complete syllabus for the EASA Instrument rating theoretical knowledge exams, plus tips and tricks to help make you look good on the check ride!

Mono £29.95

Add to Cart

Colour £79.95

Add to Cart

PDF

Buy NOW

The AS 350/355 Book


An advanced workbook for this popular helicopter, with the background knowledge required to use it effectively.

Mono £29.95

Add to Cart

Colour £59.95

Add to Cart

PDF

BUY NOW

Canadian Professional Pilot Studies


Ground Study Material for the CPL, ATPL, IR and IATRA Exams, PPCs and Recurrent Training, and Despatchers, for aeroplanes, all in one book!

Just as important as the exams is the interview panel, and this is the book for those who want to deal with both - its purpose is to help you become a professional, for which the exams are but a step on the way - doing the bare minimum to pass them makes you ill-prepared to be a pilot, which is not fair to future passengers and painfully obvious to employers (and examiners) who certainly expect you to have more than the basic knowledge supplied by lesser material. Although it covers the material required for the CPL, INRAT and IATRA exams, it is really focussed toward the ATP, to bring Canadian pilots up to modern international standards, written by a pilot with considerable operational experience, and including professional tips and tricks not taught in the classroom, plus a lot you should be taught, were it not for time constraints, based on common questions asked during recurrent training, and known exam questions. It is also useful if you are waiting for a job to turn up and wish to keep your knowledge current, and for people with foreign licences who need to get their Canadian ones in a hurry, so there's real value inside these pages, especially as they don't contain the mistakes and misinformation you will find elsewhere (our digital printing means that changes and feedback are incorporated almost immediately). This means you don't have to buy multiple copies of the same information, or stuff that is freely available from Transport Canada anyway. In other words, this one book covers the same syllabuses as Culhane (Accelerated Aviation Training) does somewhat sketchily over several volumes, so your costs are vastly reduced. Although known exam questions have been worked into the text, there is no substitute for exam practice, and there are free exam questions available from here.

"It is good to have a competitor in the market."

Training Captain

"I haven't found a single mistake!"

Transport Canada Inspector

"other products appear to be copy and pasted out of various Transport Canada documents...Makes for a dry read. What I enjoy about your books is the how the material is presented with the flow of a novel. The material is much easier to read and retain in this format!"

Dave

"Wow, what a big book (CPPS). Lots of new information and diagrams and I'm only just leafing through it. (mach meter, servo assistance, fuel tanks, EFIS,...). We will have to start from the beginning, reading everything. This has more than any book or collection of books that I have seen. I have to say, Phil, that this is the kind of book that the academies should be using, not that Jxxxxxxx stuff. This is a beautiful book."

JW

"Your text was the best I've seen...... comprehensive, well written and accurate."

BA, MD

"For what it's worth I think your book is useful, and good value for money. [The other product, begins with C] is almost shorthand, and makes for dull reading. I wrote my TC CPL aeroplane examination at Abbotsford yesterday, and passed with an overall mark of 82%. As nearly all of my studying was done while I was overseas, your CPPS was a great help - so this is to say 'thank you'."

Brian Marsh

"It is by far the best companion book that I have had and unlike the others I will continue to use it as a reference book for years to come. I enjoyed the greater depth that your book gave compared with the other popular books and your conversational writing style and humour were refreshing. I hope to make the conversion to JAR (or EASA) ATPL in a few years time and would certainly turn to your books again!"

Jenny

"I am a FAA Private pilot and my plan was to move to Canada where I have a job offer. The thing is that, unfortunately, I did not get a visa (global bureaucratic system). Originally I`m from Czech republic, where I live right now. Anyhow, I signed up for JAR ATPL(A) course here. A study material I have received for this course is absolutely NOT that quality as your book is. I am impressed how you compressed everything into one book. So all I want to say is, that even I am not in Canada, I am using your (Canadian) book for European exam studies!

I don't know how to say this better than one of your customers who said: This is the book what every pilot should have in his bookshelf.

And I like your sense of humor. I have never seen you, but I have a feeling that you have to be a great pilot and a great man as well.

And I really mean it. Thank You"


Bob Pesta

"Where do I start? The book was well written with some humour thrown in, which is refreshing especially when comparing to the Weather Command Manual. The CARs are explained well, which is probably most of my students' most challenging subjects. I carried that book around with me everyday for the past year while studying and everytime I read it I found something new. It not only helped me with getting ready for my ATPL but also in teaching my students the core subjects. I also really liked the human factors and met section as it answered many questions in a more simple and matter of fact way than many of my other texts."

Dave Lilly

Book $79.95

Add to Cart

Helicopter Principles Of Flight


How the helicopter flies!

"Have perused it in spare moments, and must say, I'm impressed! It sure beats the pants [out] of the Wagtendonk in meeting with the Canadian requirements, and being just a tad more understandable. Did I say a tad, well I think it is MORE than a tad more readable!"

CFI, Central Helicopter Training Academy, Ontario

Book Mono £29.95

Add to Cart

Book £49.95 Colour

Add to Cart

PDF

BUY NOW

EASA Private Pilot Studies


The only book for the private pilot syllabus to be based on an approved EASA Professional course and to cover all of the subject matter.

"We thought this book represented excellent value for money........ It is written in an easy to understand style, (and) contains more information than is required to simply pass the JAR exams. As a single volume revision text or one to take away with you to study whilst lying on the beach, it is well worth considering. Recommended."

Today's Pilot Magazine

Mono £49.95

Add to Cart

Colour £125

Add to Cart

PDF

BUY NOW

Professional Helicopter Pilot Studies


Based on the author's EASA ATPL(H) modular distance learning course, this book provides all the material required for the FAA, EASA or Canadian exams (according to your preference), including the PPL(H), CPL(H) and ATPL(H), plus a few extras, like the Instrument Rating. The book has been specially designed for the needs of professional or military pilots seeking to gain an alternative licence, but newcomers to the industry can use it, too, since it assumes no previous knowledge.

Just as important as the exams is the interview panel, and this is the book for those who want to deal with both - its purpose is to help you become a professional, for which the exams are but a step on the way - doing the bare minimum to pass them makes you ill-prepared to be a pilot, which is not fair to future passengers and painfully obvious to employers (and interviewers) who certainly expect you to have more than a basic knowledge.

It is a reference book that follows the ATPL(H) syllabus, so you can use it before, during and after your exams, for the whole of your career! Because it provides an overview of the whole study syllabus, and the usual study materials are not easy to read on the bus or the train, the book is suitable for many types of reader:

  • Those who want to see what they are letting themselves in for.
  • Those who want to do some pre-study before starting a flying course.
  • Those who cannot understand the materials on the course they are already on.
  • Those who want a reminder of the trouble they went through!

People trying to keep current while waiting for a job or an interview to turn up will also find it useful. In fact, there's a lot in its pages you don't get taught in flying school, and a lot you should be taught, were it not for time constraints - many professional tips and tricks have been included to help make your transition to being a working pilot as easy as possible. Much of the contents are based on common questions asked during recurrent training, and known exam questions, and include the usual subjects, that is, radio, weather, law, flight planning, etc., plus Going For a Job (with lots of interview questions!).

Note that, with the EASA system, you must be recommended by an approved Flying Training Organisation before you can take the exams. However, ATPL (H) holders with at least 1000 hours (PIC or copilot) on multi-pilot helicopters type rated for the (multi-pilot) machine to be used for the skill test, with at least 500 hours on type, are exempt from the TRTO course or any training for the theoretical exams, and the skill test (no, you are not exempt the skill test, just any knowledge requirements for it!) With less than 500 hours on type, you are exempt from the theoretical exam training, but will still have to do a type rating course, which may be reduced anyway because of previous experience. This means that you can just book the exams, read this book and take them, with no sign-off from a training school - there is a slot on the application form for exemptions claimed.

"More than you need for the exams, but the minimum you need for survival."

Shawn Coyle

"I wanted to take a few minutes and give you some feedback regarding your book "Professional Helicopter Pilot Studies". As a former Chief Pilot and Training Pilot I have gone through a lot of books over the years and have written quite a few of my own company handbooks and training courses. This is without a doubt the best book in its class.

Beyond the obvious fact that it is fantastic as a study manual, it is simply a pleasure to read. I found myself reading it for enjoyment as opposed to reading it simply to study. The typeface and layout are outstanding and a pleasure on the eyes. The copy flows nicely and is succinct without being dry; informative without being verbose.

Job well done!! I look forward to getting my hands on a few of your other books in the near future. Greg tells me that you're working on an ASTAR (Squirrel) handbook much like the Bell 206 one. I look forward to that. If that's the case I hope that you will include a robust section regarding the hydraulic system on the AS350. I've found over the years that most pilots have a very poor understanding of how the system actually works (which may have contributed to the various accidents in the past few years).

Warmest regards,"


Lee Johnson

"Your textbook is what all the textbooks should be like, easy to understand and captivating to read."

Joanne

"The more I read the better it is. Trying to hit that easy medium you mentioned sure isn't easy! Pretty damn good if I may say. Keep up the good work!"

Nicholas Carpenter

"In regards to studying, there are local colleges that have ground schools, but nothing for helicopters. And after all these years in high tech, I know I can study all the basic text to get the foundation without having someone spoon feed me in class. And I know your book will do that. Very succinct"

Dean Phillips

"Thanks Phil, the book arrived the day that I sent the email, great book, can't put it down!"

Colin Riley

"The book is excellent. From what I have seen of most training manuals, they are written by professional flight instructors who have very little practical experience out in the field. That is where your book outshines most other books"

Richard Theriault

"I have been reading the book and I can honestly say that it is by far the best text regarding learning for flying that I have read. Everything else is sooooooooooo dry and seems to make an exciting subject very, very dull."

Derek Swinn

"A study guide, aid and reference for the ATPL exams, the 'more' covering such subjects as job interviews, exam techniques, career path, etc. etc. All wrapped in a good sense of humour. The book certainly approaches the ATPL subjects from a rather different angle than I have ever encountered. The humour, wit and undoubted flight experience of the writer come through when discussing the various ATPL exam subjects. My impressions of the book are vary favourable. Having read it twice, it struck me as being very well researched, informative and well laid out. The book has wide margins on each page for the student to make notes, etc."

Rod Parker, BALPA Log

"I have somewhere around 10 years flying IFR and I still learnt something, reading Phil's books."

pc12dude

"It was very useful for my exams. There are a lot of concepts that explain JAR questions that I didn’t find in my Spanish books, like helicopter principles of flight, human factors, operational procedures, air law, etc... For me was very useful, and for the present and the future is a very good consult tool that is very easy to find any question quickly in only one book. Also it has another thing very difficult to explain for me; in the book I feel your experience not only the theoretical like the rest of my books."

Jose Martinez

"I have been starting to read Professional Helicopter Pilot Studies and have so far got to the start of section 2a (AGK). After getting over the sheer size of the book I have found the content truly informative and logical (and humourous which also helps!).

Without question I am amazed with the level of service that you provide. It is SO rare to get even any level of acceptable service in the UK. What I have experienced in such a short space of time from yourself far far exceeds any other service experience I have ever had! Keep doing what you are doing!! It's truly unique."


Ian Gibbs

"I just passed my instructor course last friday and my examiner was Mike Green. He said my ground school knowledge was very good and in a way you had a hand in it! I got your book Professional Helicopter pilot studies and it really helped me a lot throughout the course! It is an amazing book! Kind regards"

Alf

"....[other] books don't seem to be as complete as the one made by Phil Croucher...."

Pascal

"As for the book it is really very, very good. I've got rather large ring binders to study from and the book condenses all of this (and more to be fair) into a handy size which is great since I can hide it in my brief case and read it at work!! I like the way it's written - and I especially like the humour!! If there is something I can't get my head around in my "formal" notes then I can pretty much guarantee to find an alternative explanation in your book.

I also like the going for a job section - it's really useful to get a feel for what you will most likely come up against - especially the interview and possible questions you may get asked. I dont think I interview particularly well so any head start on that area is most welcome."


David Huntington

"It arrived this morning! After a quick scan through it looks to be exactly what I was after - the entire syllabus (plus more), very well-written and in a handy size. I'm really pleased."

Mezz

"As far as the book goes, this is the best value I think anybody can have. I read through the Human Factors chapter, and HOLY COW! You got it right on. Best compilation over a relative few pages of so much material I have seen. Have read a few of these human factors books, and this chapter is stellar. You even used the same examples of accidents that I use, so it'll flow really good with my personal groundschool. I will use the Professional Pilot studies part for all the students, as well as CARs and the Helicopter Pilot's Handbook. This seems to give lots of value, without having to get another 10 pounds of wasted paper, in outdated books. Everything else is downloadable from Transport Canada!"

Harald Sydness, Chief Flight Instructor, Provincial Helicopters Ltd. FTU

"I am happy with the CPLH book. 100 times better than [that other guy]! I am impressed with the detail, especially in the human factors section. I believe this is the area most left behind in most flight training. If all low timers could understand their true responsibility the air would be a safer place to be. One of my main focuses is to ensure they are educated to "industry" standards and not licensing standards. Our industry needs someone to push so the standard of graduates can start meeting industry standard. A GS based on your product will be the best available anywhere.

By the way, the human factors section of your book is a mirror image of what I teach. I had one student come to me and ask if we worked on it together. I truly believe this is the most important factor missing in flight training. Helicopters rarely crash on their own, usually there is someone or a group who makes it happen. So Kudos. It's nice to see someone who cares about the education of the younger generation."


Rob Wood, Chief Flight Instructor, Premier Helicopter Training, BC

"Having spent 10 years at University, studying marine biology and reading a ton of dry and rather boring textbooks, I am delighted to see how you combine real world language, in depth knowledge and humour to create truly gripping and highly educative teaching material. So, thank you very much!!"

Swissmatt

"WOW!!! When it comes to helicopter piloting, this book covers all the bases. If you are an ab initio student or fledgling flyer this book will provide virtually all the information you will need to ace the Canadian exams and accelerate your professional career. If you can already walk on water as a highly experienced rotary wing pilot, be prepared to levitate above the surface. I don't think I've ever read an aviation book that taught me so much in a very readable format that also provides an excellent refresher. Author Phil Croucher's international flying experience has expanded the book's dimensions with a worldly touch and since many of us have served or will serve in other countries, the information is extremely valuable. On the topic of bang for the buck, the Mono version at $80 (half the price of the sparsely coloured version) is a bargain because it contains all of the learning that would be involved in buying rotary- wing manuals totaling hundreds or thousands of dollars. The publisher covers the scope of the book when he states Professional Pilot Helicopter Studies should be read by:

  • Those who want to see what they are letting themselves in for.
  • Those who want to do some pre-study before starting a flying course.
  • Those who cannot understand the materials on the course they are already on.
  • Those who want a reminder of the trouble they went through!

Another good reason to purchase Phil Croucher's experience relates to helicopter pilot instructing. One way or another, many, if not most of us will instruct others during our careers. Whether it is recurrency training as a check pilot or chief pilot at a company, ab initio rotary- wing training or advanced training whereby you pass on highly developed skills to students, having a manual that covers the bases will prove priceless. Have you ever had a situation whereby you were trying to get a point across and the student just wasn't getting it? Turn to Croucher's concordance…

For those of you who think you already know enough about our industry, think again. This book will not only provide a useful review in our changing realm, but also provide newly available safety information that we can all benefit from. As an accident investigator and aviation consultant in the courts, I can assure readers that the seasoned pilots who are wrapping helicopters up into crumpled balls are not as knowledgeable as they thought! Unfortunately all too many pilots stop learning or reviewing data after their written and flight tests.

Make no mistake, the knowledge within the covers goes well beyond Transport Canada exams, and well it should because the world of professional flying is far more challenging than the written exam where the most serious risk is falling off a chair. Furthermore, flying schools cannot teach all of the skills and facts you need to know to survive because they cater to the basic Transport Canada rating minimums. Moreover schools' hands are tied when it comes to curriculum expansion and they can't augment the flight training due to escalated costs for their students. In the competitive marketplace, any training establishment that greatly expands the training program would drive itself out of business.

So it falls upon pilots to top up the skills and information they need to operate safely. How can they best do this? Well, they teach themselves when they finally get a flying job - however, this is often a deadly scenario. After leaving the military with a few thousand pilot-in-command hours, it seemed that rigourous training would prepare me for anything the civilian industry could lay on me. How wrong I was! There were many close calls with an imminent burial detail as I slowly educated myself into the demanding world of civilian rotary wing operations.

Don't fool yourself into thinking peacetime military flying is more demanding. Two pilot crews and stringent safety standards in flying forces not responsible to provide a profit makes military ops a relative piece of cake. Compared to on-job risks, a better/safer way to learn the ropes is through a well-written reference manual such as Mr. Croucher's.

My advice? Invest in this rotary-wing piloting bible and read one of Phil's 456 subchapters each day. It is not only a good read but also an inexpensive form of flight safety insurance. Health Warning: Pilots with back or hernia injuries be advised this tome weighs more than four pounds (about two kilos).

Ken Armstrong, Helicopters Magazine

Canada $79.95

Add to Cart

US $79.95

Add to Cart

EASA Mono Part 1 £59.95

Add to Cart

EASA Mono Part 2 £59.95

Add to Cart

EASA Colour Part 1 £125

Add to Cart

EASA Colour Part 2 £125

Add to Cart

EASA PDF

BUY NOW

Private Helicopter Pilot Studies


The only book for the private helicopter pilot syllabus to be based on an approved EASA ATPL(H) course.

The subject matter has been completely rearranged - most schools get their students to start with air law which is completely indigestible and the most likely subject to put them off. In this book, parts of the law syllabus have been included in the preceding chapters so that by the time it is reached it is easier to swallow!

"Phil ... first I have to acknowledge a truly monumental piece of technical writing. As a one time Geologist and physics grad, I thought my technical knowledge was rather good, but it doesn't approach yours. So all I can say is an exceptional "well done" in producing the tome.

Your work will be an invaluable reference source and as I'm sure you know, the level you have set will appeal to a particular type who does want to raise his knowledge higher than the average.

I like the fact that you separate Map reading from Navigation. So many FIs don't. I also like your use of 'Gyroplane' There's so much confusion between Autogyro and Autigiro. And finally - finally - just love the constant use of your humour to lighten the student's day.

Anyway, I still stand by my first comment .. that what you have produced is in the same league as the ancient but totally comprehensive AP 129."


Dennis Kenyon

"Once I got into it I found it a great read. The style of putting in your anecdotal stuff really helps to put the hard facts into perspective. Anyway the bottom line is that the guys are getting good passes in the exams with very little input from me, which is good."

Oliver Heynes

"..a truly excellent tome that... is the equivalent of a full set of Thoms, with half as much material again. It is very readable and quite easy to understand.. worth every penny...."

Today's Pilot Magazine

EASA Mono £49.95

Add to Cart

EASA Colour £125

Add to Cart

PDF

BUY NOW

EASA Professional Pilot Studies


All the stuff that matters for the EASA ATPL for aeroplanes, without getting lost in the detail!

"The Standard for JAA [EASA] revision!"

Pete Godwin, CFI, Bonus Aviation

Just as important as the exams is the interview panel (BA expect over 85% overall passing grade), and this is the book for those who want to deal with both - its purpose is to help you become a professional, for which the exams are but a step on the way - doing the bare minimum to pass them makes you ill-prepared to be a pilot, which is not fair to future passengers and painfully obvious to employers (and interviewers) who certainly expect you to have more than a basic knowledge.

The FAA and many other authorities issue documents containing the information from which their exam questions are taken. This is the book that EASA should have written. Based on the author's approved EASA distance learning course, it is a reference book that covers the breadth of the ATPL syllabus at just the right level, so you can use it before, during and after your exams, for the whole of your career! Because it provides an overview of the whole study syllabus, and the usual study materials are not easy to read on the bus or the train, the book is suitable for many types of reader:

  • Those who want to see what they are letting themselves in for.
  • Those who want to do some pre-study before starting a flying course.
  • Those who cannot understand the materials on the course they are already on.
  • Those who want a reminder of the trouble they went through!

People trying to keep current while waiting for a job or an interview to turn up will also find it useful. In fact, there's a lot in its pages you don't get taught in flying school, and a lot you should be taught, were it not for time constraints - many professional tips and tricks have been included to help make your transition to being a working pilot as easy as possible. Much of the contents are based on common questions asked during recurrent training, and known exam questions, and include the usual subjects, that is, radio, weather, law, flight planning, etc.

The book is in two parts. Part 1 covers Human Factors, Aircraft General Knowledge, principles of Flight and Instruments. Part 2 covers Law, Operations, Performance, Mass & Balance, Radio Navigation, Communications, General Navigation, Meteorology and Flight Planning.

The PDF is clearly readable on a 7" tablet, plus you can expand the pictures to make them more readable. On top of that, it is fully searchable on keywords.

"I do wish I’d found your stuff sooner instead of paying €2570 to Global Aviation in Greece (they use BGS)..."

Sacha

"By the way, I finished the 14 ATPL subjects some months ago and your book was a life saver. I used your book to study and understand the subjects, and a QB for practice. I've read my fair share of technical books in my lifetime and I have to say yours is probably the best one I've read. Very well explained and to the point. Good job! :)"

Rafa C

"Thanks for the quick response. Oh, it goes without saying that the book helped heaps. I'm going to read it again, this time not focusing so much on passing the exams but in the attempt to acquire useful knowledge. I'm sure you know what I mean ;-). I'll surely let you know if think of something useful to be added, however, the book is so well written that it won't be easy:)"

Aleksander S

"Lol. Cleared [Singapore] Met with 87 from your book. Down to my last 3 papers whilst in the midst of MCC. Not fun. But ur book is awesome. With not much time to study the Oxford books and CBTs, I used your book for AGK as well.... I've got a job already. Not complaining. Thanks a ton."

Bryan C

"I am treating it more as a review/knowledge expander since I do not hold EU citizenship and see very limited value in getting the JAA licence given the expense vs. return. It is very well written and a fantastic value compared to the other JAA texts that I have seen advertised"

Uwe Goehl

"I am really enjoying the book! I love the writing style and the references you make to the Canadian system. Truth is, I wanted this book as a brush for my ATPL knowledge as I am looking for a job in Europe again. I hear that some companies test your ATPL knowledge on their assessment. I originally completed the JAA conversion from my Transport Canada CPL back in 2012, having done a JAA distance learning ground school with Naples Air Center. I can honestly say, I wish I had this book as a study and reference guide back then.

Anyway, thanks for your good customer service, and I look forward to continuing to better my knowledge base with your book.

Josh

"....things are explained much better than on Bristol CBT and your book is my main source of study."

Marco

"From the brief look I've had at both books they seem to be just the job. I like your style of writing - it stops them being an insomnia cure!"

Robert Curry

"...it is well written and the ability to put over complicated material in a readable fashion is admirable."

Today's Pilot Magazine

"I am a FAA Private pilot and my plan was to move to Canada where I have a job offer. The thing is that, unfortunately, I did not get a visa (global bureaucratic system). Originally I`m from Czech republic, where I live right now. Anyhow, I signed up for JAR ATPL(A) course here. A study material I have received for this course is absolutely NOT that quality as your book is. I am impressed how you compressed everything into one book. So all I want to say is, that even I am not in Canada, I am using your (Canadian) book for European exam studies!

I don't know how to say this better than one of your customers who said: This is the book what every pilot should have in his bookshelf.

And I like your sense of humor. I have never seen you, but I have a feeling that you have to be a great pilot and a great man as well.

And I really mean it. Thank You"


Bob Pesta

"for me is my go to book, Its a jewel full of science with good humor.... best part IN PLAIN ENGLISH. excellent job."

Ruben

"A study guide, aid and reference for the ATPL exams, the 'more' covering such subjects as job interviews, exam techniques, career path, etc. etc. All wrapped in a good sense of humour. The book certainly approaches the ATPL subjects from a rather different angle than I have ever encountered. The humour, wit and undoubted flight experience of the writer come through when discussing the various ATPL exam subjects. My impressions of the book are vary favourable. Having read it twice, it struck me as being very well researched, informative and well laid out."

Rod Parker, BALPA Log

"Its real value lies in taking the plethora of booklets and ring-bound photocopies associated with commercial examinations and condensing them into an attractive and portable form. The guy really does deserve a medal ~ he has made a genuine contribution to the body of professional aviation literature assembled during the course of the last century. I heartily recommend it to students of commercial flight, if only as a souvenir of their efforts... "

Colin Wilson, pprune

"A quickie to say thanks, your book arrived yesterday. I must say that I am very impressed at the level of detail, the style and levity, and the extraordinary ballsache that must have been required to write it! It is the sort of document that should be carried in a nav bag! I remain extremely impressed with the content and style. It has been a while since I have thought about much of the intricate detail that you cover so well."

Tim O'Dwyer-Russell

"As for the book it is really very, very good. I've got rather large ring binders to study from and the book condenses all of this (and more to be fair) into a handy size which is great since I can hide it in my brief case and read it at work!! I like the way it's written - and I especially like the humour!! If there is something I can't get my head around in my "formal" notes then I can pretty much guarantee to find an alternative explanation in your book."

David Huntington

"I have purchased a few of your books and have found the ones that I have read already invaluable.

I would like to thank you for the book JAR PPS, without it I don't know what I would have done. I just wish I had found it earlier in my training."


Carl

Mono Part 1 £59.95

Add to Cart

Mono Part 2 £59.95

Add to Cart

Colour Part 1 £125

Add to Cart

Colour Part 2 £125

Add to Cart

PDF

BUY NOW

About The Author


Phil Croucher's computer books are the result of several years' experience of freelance network management, system building and repairs, being A+, N+ and Netware certified. He has been involved with computing since 1986, starting off with a variation of Acorn's BBC computer, the Torch, using its own version of CP/M, called CP/N. From there he has fond memories of the Sirius and the Macintosh, but has mostly been involved with IBM compatibles of all shapes and sizes, and still uses Multiuser DOS.

He has been a regular guest on AM1290's Saturday morning computer chat show, Experts On Call, and has written several columns for UK's Computer Shopper, PC Plus, Vertical and Pilot magazines.

Phil holds EASA, UK, and Canadian professional licences for helicopters and aeroplanes, and has over 8700 accident-free hours. He has at various times been a Chief Pilot and Operations Manager of several companies, including a third level airline in the UK. He is currently Head Of Training for Caledonian Advanced Pilot Training.