Maritime Search and Rescue Training Program

Helicraft is proud to be able to offer an amazing Maritime Rescue Familiarization and Adventure Program.  Along with our fleet of helicopters, Helicraft utilizes an offshore support vessel to co-ordinate realistic training serious between aircraft and vessel.

We offer a unique and amazing adventure with this introductory course on offshore search and rescue techniques, missing vessel and personnel recovery, survival gear drops, and winching. The course offers to training for both pilot and non-pilot mariners who wish to be prepared for effective work with an offshore rescue scenario to ensure the best survival outcomes. 

The simulated and real-world experience gained from these activities will provide invaluable experience and training to both aircrews and mariners alike. It can be a great first step to further courses and a career in the aviation and maritime rescue environment.  

You will experience both the training from both the helicopter and vessel points of view. At the completion of training, students receive a completion certificate, video and photographs for evidence and mementos. 

Air Search Pilot or Observer Training 

This introductory training covers the basic competencies required to conduct air search observation duties during an air search operation.

The course is delivered with the aid of audio-visual presentations, workshops and scenario discussions followed by both an exciting and challenging airborne adventure simulating search for a missing vessel.

Subjects covered in this course include the following: 

  • Search and rescue roles and responsibilities
  • The Australian Aviation and Maritime search and rescue system
  • Criteria to be an effective SAR team member including interpersonal and operational communication
  • Introductory Crew Resource Management (CRM)
  • Non Technical skills (NTS 1 and 2)
  • Factors that impede performance
  • Correct Clothing and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Manifests
  • Briefings (IAW CAO20:11)
  • Hazards and risk reduction
  • Working around Aircraft
  • Approaching aircraft
  • Loading aircraft
  • Moving within the aircraft
  • Use of the GNSS (GPS)
  • How to scan at an effective distance
  • Saccading
  • Factors affecting saccading
  • How to Report sightings
  • Maintaining sightings
  • Departing the aircraft
  • Operational debriefs
  • Departing the aircraft
  • Working effectively on a vessel in the SAR environment
  • Marine safety
  • Making yourself an easy rescue
  • Recommended further training courses
  • (external- HUET, CRM, Low level Obstacle Awareness, SLS SRC, and first aid.)

WHAT OUR CLIENTS AND STUDENTS ARE SAYING

"Had a fantastic experience doing a trial introductory flight with Mark in the Robinson R44. The session was very engaging, professional and safe. Would 100% recommend Helicraft Australia!!"
Chris C
"I had such an awesome time on my first TIF with Mark! He made the whole experience fun and engaging, and he’s a fantastic instructor."
Dom L
"Would give 10 stars if available. Fantastic and professional operation. Nathan is a great Instructor. Nathan is incredibly patient, courteous and makes me feel at ease. Highly recommend Helicraft for its professionalism and reasonable prices."
Wayne L
“Excellent experience - from booking to landing! Big thanks to Nathan for a great flight :)”
Josh M
"Thank you Mark for the great experience. Your knowledge, experience and patience really made my first time flying smooth and not as scary as I thought."
Ronny K
"I have flown with many instructors around Australia but none as professional, diligent, consistent and thorough as the flight instructors at Helicraft!"
Wayne M
"Fantastic trial lesson with Nathan. Very relaxed and family like atmosphere - will definitely be coming back!"
David M
"We recently had a fantastic experience with Helicraft Australia. The service was excellent!! Nathan was friendly, professional and knowledgeable. Thanks guys!! I’ll be back next year! Highly recommend this company!"
Ally C
"Had an amazing flight over Melbourne yesterday. Mike was fantastic. We will definitely be back to explore more of Melbourne from the air in the near future."
Scott S

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