Helicopter Search Training

Helicopters are used in search and rescue.

Individuals interested in a helicopter search and rescue career must first pursue a helicopter pilot license and then further training in stand-alone search and rescue programs. Military and Coast Guard personnel can participate in search and rescue training programs offered by the Coast Guard.

Program

Aspiring helicopter search and rescue pilots can enroll in an associate of applied science degree program offered at colleges in the United States. The program requires completion of a minimum of 60 credits. Students can minor in helicopter flight in bachelor degree programs at universities that offer them. Stand-alone courses are available for individuals with helicopter pilot licenses.

Curriculum

Students learn the mechanics of flying a helicopter, including how to use the helicopter's flight instruments, and how to reduce the risk of accidents through decision making, resource management and interpretation of weather information. Stand-alone search and rescue programs teach search probability theory, survival and body management, incident management and rescue gear use.

Assessment

In each program, students are assessed through written exercises and examinations. Degree programs include Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) oral and practical tests required to obtain a private pilot helicopter license and a flight instructor helicopter certification.

Coast Guard Training

The Coast Guard offers service members helicopter search training, emergency medical technician training and an aviation survival technician course that prepares them to participate in rescues during extreme situations.

References

• Hibbing Community College: Professional Helicopter Pilot Training
• Aims Community College: Helicopter Pilot Option
• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: Helicopter Minors
• Michigan Tech: NASAR Fundamentals of Search and Rescue Course
• Hibbing Community College: Course Descriptions
• United States Coast Guard & Coast Guard Reserve: Aviation Survival Technician (AST)