Do SAS employ their own pilots?

Yes, between them, SAS operating companies are the largest commercial employers of onshore helicopter pilots in the UK: some 50 currently serve in support of emergency service contracts. They traditionally employ experienced aircrew and instructors from a military background, each with a minimum of 2,000 operational flying hours. These are invariably seasoned aviators who know their strengths and limitations - and those of their aircraft.

All new PAS/MAS pilots undergo a rigorous police or EMS role-conversion programme, under the supervision of the Company's instructors. To keep their flying skills sharp, they also undergo regular evaluations as required by the CAA. Type Rating Examiners and an Instrument Rating Examiner are employed for this purpose

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