There is a real problem with SAR helicopters;
Two conflicting requirements have been identified ; to have high speed (which implies a small diameter rotor) and low downwash (which implies a large diameter flexible rotor).
Except that this dichotomy assumes the use of helicopters flying to the coast or out to sea from an in-land base.
The solution ? Zeppelins.
Stop thinking about helicopter crews; sat around in their "grow-bags" looking at the Readers Wives section of Fiesta to check out the ground crew's partners while waiting for a job; or hoping to take out the crate for a quick sortie then back for tea and medals.
Think Zeppelin.
In all of the common SAR areas we should place airships on patrol. No problems with crewing because they will be on two week patrols with all the crew they need and no one can drop out of their duty unless they have a parachute. (and a lifejacket).
None of the problems with lift capacity - if you have to winch up yet another 10 seamen just chuck the piano or other ballast over the side.
Forget all these problems about a fast helicopter that can get to the scene but can only lift a few or a slow helicopter that can lift more; have a Zeppelin on site patrolling.
Forget arguing about which helicopter would be best ;
the new UK SAR Harmonised response is a Zeppelin, which will be kept on station and patrolling.