7568 Pilot HMLA FRS Basic AH-1

Core Skills

• mission planning and execution
• tactical employment of rotary-wing aircraft
• close air support coordination
• airborne command and control support
• situational awareness and decision making under stress
• use of airborne communications systems
• coordination with ground and air units
• risk management and safety
• crew resource management
• basic understanding of avionics and weapons systems

Civilian Career Paths

• Commercial Aviation
• Aviation Management
• Unmanned Systems

Training & Development

What the Work Involves

• Check aircraft prior to flights to ensure that the engines, controls, instruments, and other systems are functioning properly.
• Co-pilot aircraft or perform captain's duties, as required.
• Consider airport altitudes, outside temperatures, plane weights, and wind speeds and directions to calculate the speed needed to become airborne.
• Use instrumentation to pilot aircraft when visibility is poor.
• Monitor engine operation, fuel consumption, and functioning of aircraft systems during flights.

Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.