Description
Serve as pilot-in-command for air ambulance missions, operating fixed-wing aircraft or helicopters on unscheduled medical transports. Requires a Commercial Pilot certificate with instrument privileges. Ensure safe, rapid transport of patients, medical crew, and equipment while complying with Part 135, coordinating with dispatch, ATC, and hospitals, and leading crew risk management.
- • Perform preflight inspections of engines, controls, instruments, and critical systems for mission readiness.
- • Receive dispatch and medical briefs; confirm patient condition, weights, equipment, and destination requirements.
- • Calculate weight and balance for patient, crew, equipment, and fuel; determine performance limits.
- • Review weather, NOTAMs, terrain, and LZ/airport data; complete risk assessment and go/no-go decision.
- • Plan routes and alternates per regulations and company SOPs; file IFR/VFR flight plans.
- • Start engines/rotors, taxi, and fly time-critical interfacility and scene missions.
- • Contact ATC/towers for clearances, priority handling, and arrival instructions.
- • Use instrument procedures and terrain/obstacle avoidance systems in low visibility or at night.
- • Monitor engine operation, fuel consumption, and aircraft systems; manage power, pressurization, and oxygen as needed.
- • Select routes, altitudes, and speeds to balance safety, time, and patient care needs.
- • Request altitude or route changes for weather, turbulence, or medical considerations.
- • Coordinate with ground EMS, hospitals, and ATC for landing zone/runway selection and patient transfer.
- • Verify secure loading and restraint of patient, stretcher, medical equipment, and baggage.
- • Direct changes to fuel, loads, routes, or schedules to ensure safety and mission success.
- • Maintain continuous communication with the medical crew; adjust flight profile to support care.
- • Record flight and mission data, including times, altitudes, fuel, and deviations.
- • Lead and supervise flight crew; apply CRM and sterile cockpit procedures.
- • Conduct in-flight checks and post-maintenance or acceptance flights as assigned.
- • Perform minor maintenance or write up discrepancies and coordinate corrective actions.
- • Ensure compliance with FAA Part 135, HAA standards, and company policies.
- • Submit PIREPs and safety reports to support operational awareness.
- • Train and mentor pilots in company and EMS procedures when designated.
- • Evaluate pilot proficiency during line checks or training flights, as assigned.
- • Execute emergency procedures and coordinate evacuations or diversions when required.
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
