Helicopter Pilot – Utility / External Load Operations

12-week, in-person SkillBridge program designed for qualified military rotary-wing and tiltrotor aviators transitioning into civilian utility helicopter operations. Initial aircraft training is conducted primarily in the S-58T and focuses on aircraft systems and procedures, 14 CFR Part 133 external-load operations, vertical-reference/long-line flying, ground-support operations, and supervised local utility OJT. The program also includes aerial-firefighting academics, bucket/tank familiarization, and SIC preparation. Following employment and applicable company qualification, pilots may progress into additional company aircraft, including the BK-117 and UH-60, as well as aerial-firefighting SIC and eventual PIC duties.

The Helicopter Pilot – Utility / External Load Operations position supports 5 State Helicopters commercial utility, aerial-crane, external-load, and aerial-firefighting operations. Initial training and qualification focus on the S-58T. As experience and company qualifications are gained, pilots may progress into additional company aircraft, including the BK-117 and UH-60. Duties include mission planning, aircraft performance and weight-and-balance calculations, aircraft inspections, crew and ground-team coordination, and flight operations as qualified. Pilots develop vertical-reference and long-line proficiency for Part 133 operations and may later support aerial-firefighting operations as SIC and progress toward PIC after meeting applicable FAA, company, insurance, and agency requirements.

Prior military rotary-wing or tiltrotor pilot qualification and flight experience required. Applicant must possess, or be eligible to obtain prior to applicable flight training, FAA pilot certificates/ratings and medical qualifications required for the training being conducted. Applicant must meet applicable 5 State Helicopters, FAA, insurance, and aircraft qualification requirements. Participation requires approval through the Service member’s applicable SkillBridge/Career Skills Program process.

Training sequence may be adjusted based on weather, aircraft availability, maintenance requirements, trainee progression, and suitable local operational OJT opportunities. Operational wildfire rotations and interagency pilot carding are not conducted as part of this SkillBridge program. Firefighting training during SkillBridge is limited to approved academics, controlled practical training, and SIC familiarization.