TRAINING


To prepare for these overseas operations, helicopter pilots and mechanics begin their service at JAARS Base in North Carolina. The JAARS Helicopter Training Department primarily utilizes an R66, but also a Bell 206L-4 for specific training. The flight instructors have significant experience from both fixed-wing and rotorcraft operations in various countries.


Pre-Field Training


After passing a technical evaluation and joining the organization, pilots and mechanics go through Pre-Field Orientation (PFO) before deploying overseas. The PFO flight curriculum for helicopter pilots includes 40 hours of flying and covers all operational aspects:


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external cargo training, loading and logistics (i.e. fuel positioning in areas with limited access), and mountain-specific training. As mentioned, North Carolina, with its Mount Mitchell, provides excellent terrain-factor training. Cloud and wind conditions in the mountains along with hot, high and heavy-weight operations in confined areas provide valuable experiences for trainees before they are assigned overseas.


Industry Training


With Robinson and Bell helicopters deployed around the world and stationed in the U.S., JAARS takes advantage of industry training by sending pilots and mechanics to manufacturers’ technical


schools. Partnering with organizations like Ethnos360 Aviation, JAARS shares and obtains helicopter knowledge and training within the niche field of mission aviation.


Recurrent and Standardization Training


To ensure the continued proficiency of deployed pilots, recurrent and standardization training occurs at specific intervals. Whether pilots return to the U.S. base or check pilots travel to overseas bases, continuing the development of excellence and accountability to JAARS standards is an important aspect of training.


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