Hmmm, I have pretty well kept away from this thread as the quality of much of the debate is lacking. But now, I can't help myself.
HC and Fareastdriver, I agree with you both completely. Plenty of Bristow HP Co-pilots went straight from ab initio training to SAR roles on the S-61 and are now experienced Commanders.
HC The ex mil up himself commander you refer to ended up working for me....until he had to go because of co pilot and customer complaints, I think he scared the passengers and I know he scared the co pilots....all that military superior training eh?
The notion that you have to be military trained, possess superman like skills and be a superior Sky God to be a good SAR pilot is just laughable. Those that attempt to join Bristow with that attitude are destined to spend some time at the local Job Centre.