Jimf
I'm sensing some empire building where none is required. Rotorwash is NOT a new issue and I think you will find that all parties are already aware of it, but thanks for the reminder!
Nothing you have suggested so far justifies your claim that there is a major shortfall in planned UK SAR training for those ERTs that might occasionally see a SAR helicopter never mind actually get to be a passenger in one. You seem fond of quoting CAP 999 SAR where you will find that a SAR passenger should be briefed on the following:
4 SAR Passengers
4.1 SAR passengers are to be briefed on the following, wherever possible and relevant:
a) familiarisation with the helicopter type(s) operated;
b) entry and exit under normal and emergency conditions;
c) use of the relevant on-board specialist medical equipment;
d) the need for the commander's approval prior to use of specialised equipment;
e) method of supervision of other medical staff;
f) the use of helicopter intercommunication systems;
g) location and use of on-board fire extinguishers; and
h) use of personal safety equipment.
Note the wherever possible!
Indeed Appendix 1 Exemptions from Regulations in regard to passengers states that:
The Commander may not be in a position to ensure that all
passengers are adequately briefed.
So in effect nothing has changed from the current procedures so can we please move on.
As to taking the public on and convincing them that the new service is good. It won't take 5 years, just the first few rescues should convince them that the cave rescue specialist might not be the best person to comment on aviation issues but when has the truth ever got in the way of a good newspaper story. As to the Guardian readers they will never be happy until the total current military and D of T budget is diverted to the NHS, DSS (whatever they are called now) and europe.
Cabin height, DONE!
Double doors, BONUS! Though I might get confused over which to open eek
Training schedule, there will be plenty for the aircrew and they in turn will pass on anything relavent as and when practical I am sure, but don't expect type rating courses for every MRT, RNLI, ambulance and police officer in the country.
Oh and one last thing.
The lifeboat crews generally do not require passenger pre-training in the way that MR and others do.
What makes RNLI any less deserving of a proper brief when there is the time to give one?!