Helicopter Hoist Operations, HHO (Operating a rescue winch on a helicopter)
The safe and efficient operation of a rescue winch on a rescue helicopter requires in-depth technical knowledge, precise communication, and regular training. Operators must have a thorough command of both the technical functions of the winch and the tactical procedures involved in a mission. This includes a keen sense of the controls, a good understanding of the load limits of both the winch and the helicopter, and a confident command of emergency procedures. Equally important is close cooperation with the pilot, the medical personnel, and other specialized personnel transported to the scene via the rescue winch to ensure a smooth operation.
During the mission, the safety of everyone involved is the top priority. The winch operator must constantly monitor the surroundings, identify potential hazards early on, and issue clear, standardized commands. This includes inspecting the winch cable, properly securing the patient or rescuer, and maintaining continuous communication with the cockpit crew. Transporting people via the winch cable in changing weather conditions or over rough terrain is also part of the training.
Regular hands-on exercises, combined with theoretical knowledge, reinforce routine procedures and increase operational safety. The goal of the training courses listed below is to enable personnel to act calmly, precisely, and responsibly, even under stress. Only in this way can the rescue hoist reach its full potential and reliably save lives.
Training Courses for Winch Operators (HHO)
- Basic Training on our Full-Size Virtual Reality Training Device, VR HHO TD
- Practical Module at the Bavarian Mountain Rescue Service’s Center for Safety and Training (ZSA)
- Practical Module: Real-Flight Training with Final Exam
- Practical module on emergency procedures for winch operations on the full-size Virtual Reality Training Device (VR HHO TD)
- Annual refresher course for HHOs on the full-size Virtual Reality Training Device (VR HHO TD)
- Technical fundamentals of a helicopter rescue winch (Goodrich)
- Practical exercises in patient retrieval, loading, and securing on a rock face and inside the helicopter
Human External Cargo (HEC)
- HEC Initial (Alpine Training)
- HEC Refresher (Alpine Training)
- Practical Training on avoiding rotations during winch operations
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