How to become a pilot of the air ambulance service
Air ambulance service plays a key role in saving lives. Becoming a HEMS pilot is both a challenge and a calling for those who want to help others while being hooked on flying. We have written down the steps that await you on this path.
1. Class 1 medical examination
Helicopter pilots are not held to excessive medical standards, but before you start investing in flying, make sure your health will not stop you from progressing further. For anyone considering commercial flying we recommend going through the Class 1 medical right at the start — PPL(H) only requires Class 2, but for HEMS and every higher qualification you will need Class 1, and you will know straight away where you stand.
2. Basic PPL(H) training
Most future rescue pilots go the modular training route. The first step is obtaining the PPL(H) licence — private helicopter pilot. We teach you the theory and the practical skills to operate the aircraft safely. Once you pass the theory exams at the CAA and the practical skill test with an examiner, you have your first licence in your pocket.
PPL(H) details3. English and ICAO
English is the language of aviation. Without it you cannot even read the helicopter manual and you cut yourself off from most professional publications — there is very little written in Czech about the field. On top of conversational English it is enough to learn a few aviation phrases, pass the ICAO test, and suddenly the borders are open — a few hundred kilometres in any direction and you meet the next country, where without ICAO you get no further.
4. Timebuilding
The task is clear — build as many hours as possible for as little money as possible while learning as much as you can. Take passengers under cost-sharing, drill take-offs, landings and radio. Fly abroad, get to know other environments — you might meet your future employer there. Within LHA we can arrange an internship at one of the European schools or lend you a helicopter. Try other helicopter types and interesting courses — for example the HESLO for slung-load operations.
Helicopter rental5. Commercial pilot CPL(H) training
Here the fun ends and the hard grind begins. CPL(H) theory is no walk in the park and in the practical training you really sweat — your skills must be polished to a level where future colleagues and paying clients will happily fly with you. You will either learn to love emergency procedures or hate them. Do not skimp on theory preparation and consider the ATPL-scope theory right away — it is harder, but opens doors to many more operators.
CPL(H) details6. 1000 flight hours — build experience
With a fresh CPL(H) you have about 200 hours in the logbook. Before you take the captain's seat in HEMS, you need to fly at least 1000 flight hours in total. It is time to find the first flying job — sightseeing and monitoring flights, second-in-command on VIP transport, transferring people and cargo. The fastest route is usually to provide training, where in a relatively short time you can build high hours and diverse experience — but for that you need the FI(H) instructor course.
FI(H) details7. HEMS operator-specific training
To work in air ambulance you need to go through training that the operator arranges themselves. Typically this is a type rating on the specific helicopter (H145, EC135 and similar), first-aid training, HEMS-specific procedures, NVIS (night vision flying), HEC (external human load) or hoist operations. At this point you are a fully qualified air ambulance pilot.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get from zero into a HEMS cockpit?
Realistically 5–8 years. Modular: roughly 1 year of PPL(H), 1–2 years of timebuilding and CPL(H), then 2–4 years building hours in commercial operations (most often as an instructor). The integrated CPL/ATPL route shortens the path, but assumes full-time commitment without a parallel job.
How many flight hours do I need for the HEMS captain's seat?
Air ambulance operators usually require at least 1000 flight hours in total, often more. Specific requirements vary by operator and helicopter type — larger machines (H145) tend to be more demanding.
How much does the whole path into HEMS cost roughly?
Getting from zero through PPL(H), CPL(H), FI(H) and timebuilding ranges from roughly 2.5–4 million CZK depending on how efficiently you build hours. You will find a detailed cost breakdown for PPL(H) and CPL(H) in our cost guide.
Can I fly HEMS without a CPL(H)?
No. The commercial pilot licence CPL(H) is mandatory for flights for remuneration, and HEMS operators additionally usually prefer ATPL-scope theory.
This article is a basic signpost — every step requires further detailed preparation. Do not hesitate to ask; we will gladly help you on the way to HEMS.
Want to start your path to HEMS?
Book a consultation — we will discuss where you stand today and what the next step is for you. Many of our instructors bring first-hand experience from HEMS and VIP operations.
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