The character and experience of our instructors helps us to create the best possible training environment possible. With combined flying experience of over 80 years we feel confident to answer most of your questions and equip you with more than just a basic understanding!

Michael van der Zypp (CP) (CFI) (ATO)

Michael’s dream of flying helicopters began after watching helicopters fly out to Alcatraz Island California.

Whilst driving trucks for Linfox Coca Cola Melbourne he completed his Commercial Helicopter theory course and then completed the flying course at Moorabbin Airport Victoria.

In 1990 he went to work for Central Australian Helicopters at Ayers Rock conducting scenic flights around the Ayer Rock and Olgas.

In 1993 completed an Instructor rating and worked for PHS doing various tasks lighthouse work for AMSA, fire fighting, power line patrols, gas line patrols film work and general charter.

Michael then went to work with Chris Byrnes at The Helicopter Group instructing and general charter.

Together they purchased Jayrows operation at Ayers Rock , renamed it Ayers Rock Helicopters once again Michael then went back to Ayers rock to fly and manage that operation. 

Michael then returned to Melbourne to instruct for The Helicopter Group.
Unfortunately in 1996 Chris was killed in a helicopter accident and The Helicopter Group (Aust) was registered.

Choppair Helicopters Pty Ltd is the holder of the Air Operators Certificate and now operates as The Helicopter Group (Aust), Ayers Rock Helicopters, Kings Creek Helicopters, Ayers Rock Scenic Flights, Keppel bay Helicopters and Coffs Harbour Helicopters.

I believe we can teach anyone to fly and currently have a 79 year old student and a 16 year old. We have three dedicated instructors with experience in all facets of flying. We aim to instruct with a hand’s off the controls technique so that the student gets the full feeling that they are in control of the helicopter.

Michael currently works for GTV 9 Melbourne, Ten Melbourne, Heli-Serve and is endorsed on numerous aircraft. Michael is the Chief Pilot /Chief Flying instructor and is an ATO so can conduct GFPT, PPLand CPL license tests. 

He believes that once you gain your licence you will never stop learning, that the HELICOPTER must be treated with the ultimate respect.

I wish you all the best and success with your training. Please feel free to contact me at any time on 0419349117