Game Capture or Counting Rating
A coveted rating in global demand
In the dynamic world of wildlife management, helicopters have become indispensable tools for game capture and conservation efforts. Historically, horseback riders and motorcycles were employed to round up game animals, but these methods often proved inadequate, especially in challenging terrains, leading to risks for both the team and the animals.
The introduction of helicopters revolutionised game operations, enabling safer and more efficient capture methods. A specialised game capture rating empowers pilots to skillfully cull and tranquilise animals, mastering maneuvers near the performance limits of helicopters while prioritising safety and precision.
This coveted rating, particularly sought after in Africa's diverse landscapes, reflects a commitment to wildlife conservation and the mastery of techniques essential for these high-stakes operations. Our expert instructors are dedicated to equipping you with the skills, mindset, and knowledge to become a proficient and conscientious game-rated pilot, contributing to the protection and management of game animals while upholding the highest standards of safety and ethical responsibility.
Everything you need to know about your Game Capture or Counting Rating
What you will learn
•Excellent hand & eye co-ordination •Helicopter limitations •Game Capture manoeuvres & techniques •Animal illnesses •Poaching •Animal behavior •Animal habitats •Geographical topography •Specialised veterinary medicine
Description of our Game Capture Rating
In the game industry, helicopters have become extensively employed. In the past, horseback riders and motorcycles were used to round up game animals, but this approach posed challenges, especially in rugged terrain, leading to difficulties and injuries for both the team and the animals. To address this, the introduction of helicopters revolutionized game capture operations. A game capture rating enables individuals to responsibly cull and tranquilize game animals. The training for this rating involves mastering precise manoeuvres near the limits of helicopter performance. Emphasis is placed on executing manoeuvres that may expose pilots to potentially hazardous flight conditions. The game capture rating is highly sought after worldwide, with demand in Africa. Our team of highly experienced instructors is dedicated to guiding you on the path to becoming a skilled and cautious game-rated pilot, ensuring safety for all involved.
The South African minimum requirements for Game Capture Rating
•18 years old •Hold a valid PPL(H) or Higher •A valid Class I or II Aviation Medical. oWe will assist you with a list of Aviation doctors for your Aviation Medical appointment, if required. •Fluent in English (Speak, read, write, and understand) and pass the English Proficiency) •To obtain the Helicopter Game or Livestock Cull Rating, one must pass a skills test conducted by a DFE (Designated Flight Examiner) using a suitable helicopter. This test assesses the individual's competency in performing the required procedures and manoeuvres at a level appropriate to the privileges granted to the rating holder.
Ground School Subjects:
Minimum. 2 hours Henley Air Flight Training has an approved training syllabus for a Game Capture rating. Syllabus: •Airmanship •Understanding animals •Herding game/livestock •Emergency training
Our Preferred Helicopters for your Game Capture Rating
Game capture can be conducted by any helicopter, but the Robinson 44 (R44) helicopter is our preferred type. The game capture industry really took off with the introduction of the two-seater Robinson 22 (R22), and the upgraded Hughes 300 in the 80’s. The Robinson 44 (R44) remains a favourite because of its agility, manoeuvrability, and cost efficiency. The Robinson 44 (R44) helicopter is a durable machine that is widely used nowadays in South Africa for game work and aerial spraying. This helicopter is easily maintained and readily available.
Pass Requirements for your Game Capture Rating
There are no specific examinations. An applicant for a Helicopter Game Capture or Livestock Cull Rating must have acquired the relevant experience that should at least include completion of not less than 250 hours of flight time as PIC of a helicopter of which not less than 5 hours of flight time of game capture or livestock cull operations must have been undertaken under the supervision of an appropriately rated Grade I or Grade II flight instructor who is the holder of a valid Helicopter Game or Livestock Cull Rating.
Flight Hours
•A minimum of 5 hours •A skill test of 1 hour