About the Career
Depending on their industry, helicopter pilots may perform various tasks. For example, some pilots may provide emergency or medical services, such as search and rescue, medical transport or firefighting. Some helicopter pilots also work in the military.
While their duties may vary based on their position, helicopters pilots typically have the following responsibilities:
- Inspect aircraft, instruments, systems and controls for safety before a flight
- Perform pre-flight checks, which may include checking weather forecasts and consulting with dispatchers
- Create flight plans to determine the most efficient and safest routes
- Operate a helicopter’s controls and systems and monitor instruments to ensure safety and proper functionality
- Complete all required post-flight paperwork after each flight, including a duty hours log
On the Job You Will
A helicopter pilot is responsible for operating a helicopter, which includes performing pre-flight checks, navigating using instruments, monitoring weather conditions, filing flight plans, communicating with air traffic control, and safely piloting the aircraft while transporting passengers or cargo, depending on their specific role, which can vary across industries like military, emergency services, or civilian transportation; they also need to ensure the helicopter's systems are functioning properly and complete necessary paperwork after each flight.Key responsibilities of a helicopter pilot:
- Pre-flight inspections: Checking the helicopter's instruments, controls, and systems for proper functionality before each flight.
- Weather assessment: Analyzing weather conditions along the flight path to ensure safe operation.
- Flight planning: Creating a flight plan including route, altitude, and fuel requirements.
- Communication with ATC: Maintaining contact with air traffic control to receive clearance and updates.
- Navigation: Using instruments and visual cues to navigate during flight.
- Operating controls: Managing the helicopter's controls including pitch, roll, and collective pitch to maintain stability.
- Passenger safety: Ensuring the safety of all passengers on board.
- Emergency procedures: Being prepared to handle emergencies and execute appropriate actions.
- Post-flight paperwork: Completing necessary documentation after each flight including log entries.
Different types of helicopter pilot jobs:
- Military helicopter pilot: Transporting troops, supplies, performing search and rescue missions, and combat operations
- EMS helicopter pilot: Transporting patients to medical facilities in emergency situations
- Search and rescue pilot: Locating and rescuing people in distress
- Firefighting pilot: Assisting in wildfire suppression efforts by dropping water or retardant
- Utility pilot: Performing tasks like power line maintenance, construction support, or aerial photography
- Agricultural pilot: Crop dusting and spraying pesticides on farmlands
Details
- Average Salary: $168,240
- Salary Range: $65,470 - $239,200
- Education: Certificate
- Outlook: Excellent (21% or more growth)
- Total Jobs (2020): 4,790
Education and Training
EducationAssociate’s degree or equivalent from two-year college or technical school; Bachelor’s degree preferred
Related Experience
Two to five years’ related experience and/or training
Commercial & Instrument Rating with Rotorcraft-Helicopter rating
ATP rating
First or Second Class FAA Medical certificate required
Minimum flight time: 1500 hours flight hours, 1000 hours turbine time
Job Training
Employers
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