Aerial Operations Training

Advanced Aviation-Integrated Rescue & Response Programs

The National Rescue & Response Institute (NRRI) delivers advanced Aerial Operations training designed for agencies and response teams operating in complex, time-critical, and high-risk environments. These programs focus on the safe, efficient integration of rotary-wing aviation assets into rescue, emergency response, and disaster operations.

Our training prepares personnel to operate confidently around aircraft, conduct aerial insertion and extraction, and support aviation-based rescue missions while reducing operational risk to aircrew and ground teams.

Program Overview

Modern rescue and response operations increasingly rely on aviation assets to access remote, austere, or rapidly evolving environments. NRRI Aerial Operations training emphasizes real-world aviation integration, not just theory.

Students learn to safely work in and around helicopters while understanding the limitations, risks, and coordination requirements inherent to aerial missions. Training focuses on operational decision-making, communications, aircraft safety zones, load management, and mission coordination between air and ground elements.

Who This Training Is For

NRRI Aerial Operations programs are designed for:

Fire & Rescue Departments
Search & Rescue (SAR) Teams
Law Enforcement & Tactical Units
Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
Disaster Response & USAR Teams
Military & Government Agencies
Specialized Technical Rescue Teams

Programs are scalable and customizable based on mission profile, aircraft availability, and agency authority having jurisdiction (AHJ).

Core Training Topics

Aviation Safety & Risk Management

Aircraft hazard awareness
Rotor wash, downwash, and debris management
Landing zone (LZ) selection, preparation, and control
Personal protective equipment (PPE) considerations
Crew Resource Management (CRM) principles

Aerial Insertion & Extraction

Static and dynamic insertion techniques
Aircraft approach and departure procedures
Personnel and equipment movement around aircraft
Emergency procedures and abort criteria

Long-Line & External Load Awareness

Fundamentals of long-line and sling load operations
Load stability and weight considerations
Ground team coordination with aircrew
Safety zones and operational limitations

Hoist & Short-Haul Operations (Awareness to Operations)

Hoist system fundamentals
Ground and air coordination roles
Patient packaging and attachment considerations
Mission planning and contingency management

Mission Planning & Interagency Integration

Aviation mission planning
Communications and air-to-ground coordination
Interagency aviation integration during disasters
SOP development and operational frameworks

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, participants will be able to:

Operate safely and confidently around rotary-wing aircraft
Support aerial insertion, extraction, and hoist operations
Understand aviation limitations and risk factors
Communicate effectively with aircrew and command staff
Integrate aviation assets into technical rescue and disaster operations
Reduce operational risk through sound decision-making and planning

Course Delivery & Customization

NRRI Aerial Operations training can be delivered as:

Stand-alone courses
Integrated modules within other NRRI programs
Agency-specific custom training
Disaster response or operational readiness training

Programs can be conducted on-site at your facility, at operational training locations, or in conjunction with existing aviation units when available.

Prerequisites & Requirements

Prerequisites vary based on course scope and operational level, but may include:

Prior rescue or emergency response training
Medical clearance and physical readiness
Agency authorization for aviation operations
Required PPE and equipment (provided upon request)

NRRI works directly with agencies to ensure prerequisites align with mission needs and policy requirements.