The reason to send a helicopter instead of another ambulance is:
Time.
30 seconds can make a difference-and can safe lives.
The crew on board of a HEMS aircraft are highly trained professionals (or should be, at least)-there is no need to stop the rotor before the medics get out....
Have you ever seen fire fighters sitting in their truck in front of a burning house, waiting for the driver to cut the engine?
I totally agree to the statement that the HEMS aircrew member should not touch the controls...
If the company wanted a pilot in that seat, they will have to pay for one.
If the HEMS crewmember wanted to become a pilot, he could have chosen a different career path....
No pilot should "train" a non-licensed pilot without passing an instructors course before, anyway....
Last edited by hueyracer; 4th Apr 2013 at 07:56.