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.
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.
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.
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.