Mission Statement:
The mission of LifeFlight Aviation Services is to create a safe, high reliability, instrument based aviation system for the people of Maine and greater New England. Through dedication and innovation, LFAS will support LifeFlight of Maine and the Maine hospital systems in transforming the existing critical care transport system into an integrated, high quality, patient centered system, continually improving and worthy of the public's trust.
Reports To: Base Lead Pilot/Chief Pilot
Job Location: As Assigned
Position Summary:
The Rotor Wing Captain (RWC) is responsible for the safe and efficient conduct of a flight assignment. The RWC shall be granted full authority as the pilot-in-command and exercise Tier II operational control under A008. The RWC is authorized by LFAS to process a flight request received from the LifeFlight of Maine Communications Center and determines whether to accept or decline a flight assignment based on weather conditions or other factors that may impact the safety of flight. The RWC may also present alternatives to complete the flight request other than as initially proposed based upon weather and other factors. The RWC will evaluate Visual Flight Rules (VFR) options and Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) options when applicable. The RWC will promote a Just and Accountable Culture, teamwork and strong Crew Resource Management, and work collaboratively with other members of the flight program to complete assigned and requested tasks.
Responsibilities:
- Plans flight assignments and obtains briefing information regarding purpose of the flight, weather, operating procedures and special instructions.
- Complies with all FAA Regulations, The General Operating Manual (GOM), safety manual, training manual and all other LFAS policies and procedures.
- Conducts a start of shift briefing with the assigned medical, communications and ground personnel.
- Prepares flight plan considering such factors as altitude, terrain, weather, range, weight, airport facilities and navigational aids. Utilizes the GOM in determining weather minimums to accept a flight assignment.
- Ensures at the beginning of the shift that the aircraft preflight is conducted IAW RFM and GOM, inspected, loaded, equipped, fueled and staffed for a flight assignment.
- Completes a walk around inspection of the aircraft prior to initiation of every flight assignment. The PIC may delegate a crew member to this task if the flight assignment includes a patient load with the rotor blades turning.
- Supervises and assists loading and distribution of cargo and passengers and determines that weight and balance is within prescribed limitations per the utilized method of aircraft weight and balance or the approved rotorcraft flight manual.
- Ensures cargo is properly secured and emergency equipment are aboard.
- Files, activates and closes the flight plans
- Checks aircraft discrepancy log prior to flight to ensure all discrepancies have been corrected or properly deferred prior to a flight assignment.
- Logs all mechanical discrepancies as they occur and informs maintenance personnel. Notifies the Life Flight Communications Center of the service status of the aircraft.
- Ensures proper completion of flight logs, records and maintenance forms.
- Completes paperwork as required by LFAS
- Participates in debriefings on all flights
- Keeps EFB’s current and up to date.
- Report for duty not less than 15 minutes prior to an assigned shift. This is for the accomplishment of briefings, preflight inspections and paperwork.
- Monitors all weather situations and updates the Communications Center of same.
- Notifies the Director of Operations or designee whenever the pilot may violate any rule due to being requested for a flight.
- Notifies the Director of Operations whenever a personal medical deficiency exists that would affect the safety of flight.
- Maintains proficiency as Pilot-in-Command and proficiency in SPIFR operations.
- Other duties as assigned. The Pilot-in-Command may delegate functions to other personnel but retains responsibility.
- May have a primary base and secondary base assignment. If needed at secondary base assignment, 24 hr notice will be given to ensure an on time shift start if a secondary base assignment is required.
- Maintains currency RW aircraft as directed by DO
- Adherence to requirements set forth by contracted entities to include, but not limited to, vaccination requirements and weight standards.
- Maintains weight standard applicable to the contract and aircraft to which they are assigned.
- LifeFlight of Maine weight policy for RW pilots is 230 lbs in measured in flightsuit and boots.
- See policy for further.
Skills and abilities:
- Participates in the development, implementation, and evaluation departmental aviation policies.
- Shares professional responsibility for identification, development and achievement of department goals.
- Promotes and maintains positive professional working relationships within the department and throughout the health system
- Demonstrates and promotes effective interpersonal skills.
- Promotes the safety culture of LifeFlight and places safety as a top priority.
Working conditions/physical demands:
- Ability to operate helicopters and is exposed to non-conventional motion, noise, vibration, chemicals (i.e. jet
fumes) and extreme heat or cold.
- Ability to lift at least 50 pounds using proper body mechanics and bend and carry heavy equipment and assist with carrying and loading patients.
- Ability to use maintenance stands and ladders to preflight aircraft.
- Able to refuel aircraft at the LFAS facility.
- Works in a patient care environment on the aircraft and is exposed to possible infectious diseases and chemical toxins.
The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements considered necessary to successfully perform the job.
