New Jersey
Who are you flying for currently?
I am a Tour Pilot at FlyNyon in New Jersey
What kind of helicopter(s) do you fly?
Bell 20613/14
Tell us about your career path.
From the Himalayas to Helicopter Tours: Sonam Sherpa’s Journey to Becoming a Helicopter Pilot
For many, the dream of becoming a helicopter pilot feels distant or out of reach. But for Sonam Sherpa, a young man born and raised in the rugged mountains of Nepal, the skies were always calling. With a passion for aviation and a drive to follow his dreams, Sonam’s journey took him halfway around the world — all the way from Nepal to the United States. Today, he’s living his dream, flying the Bell 206 in New Jersey and showing tourists breathtaking aerial views.
Sonam’s Story: A Path to Aviation
Sonam’s love for aviation was sparked early on in his life in Nepal, but it was his mentor, Bimal, who first introduced him to the possibility of making that passion a reality. Through Bimal, Sonam learned about Mauna Loa Helicopters (MLH) and the incredible flight training opportunities that were available.
In 2023, Sonam made the bold decision to take the leap and pursue flight training at Mauna Loa Helicopters, despite the challenges that lay ahead. What happened next would change his life forever.
12 Months of Dedication and Hard Work
Enrolling in flight training at MLH was not an easy choice, but Sonam’s drive to succeed was unwavering. Over the course of just 12 months, he worked tirelessly, mastering everything from basic flight skills to complex maneuvers. It wasn’t all smooth sailing, but Sonam was determined to overcome any obstacle.
With the support of his instructors and his own dedication, Sonam graduated, earning his certification in a remarkable time frame. His success story shows that, with the right mindset and support, it’s possible to achieve your dream of flying — and in less time than you might think.
From Flight Instructor to Tour Pilot
After completing his flight training, Sonam didn’t stop there. He became a flight instructor at Mauna Loa Helicopters, helping other aspiring pilots follow in his footsteps. As a flight instructor, Sonam not only sharpened his skills but also gained invaluable experience teaching the next generation of aviators.
Now, Sonam has taken his talents to the skies of New Jersey, flying for FlyNyon, a company specializing in helicopter tours. Operating the Bell 20613/14, Sonam takes guests on thrilling helicopter tours, showing them the beauty of the New Jersey skyline and the surrounding areas. His job is not only about flying — it’s about giving people an experience they’ll never forget.
Why You Should Enroll in Flight Training
Sonam’s journey is a powerful reminder that aviation is within your reach no matter where you come from or how big your dreams may seem. His success story is proof that with dedication, the right training program, and a supportive community, you, too, can earn your wings.
Flight training isn’t just about learning how to fly — it’s about embarking on a life-changing adventure. Like Sonam, you could be flying helicopters, experiencing the world from a whole new perspective, and creating unforgettable memories for others. Whether you’re looking to become a flight instructor, tour pilot, or pursue other aviation careers, the opportunities are endless.
