Line Pilot (helicopter)
Flying to more than 20,000 tasks every year, National Police Air Service (NPAS) crews provide effective aerial support to ground based officers across England and Wales and in doing so improve operational response to incidents within the highest safety standards. Working alongside Tactical Flight Officers, NPAS Pilots have the opportunity to make good use of their skills and experience on a variety of police missions including fast-paced, dynamic tasks such as:
• pursuit of stolen vehicles
• searching for missing persons/suspects
• support for firearms incidents
Pilots also fly to pre-planned tasks. This can include support for large public events such as the London Marathon, Heads of State visits and large demonstrations. On occasion, pilots are called upon to land so the crew can assist people in distress.
What you need to be considered for the role:
• Minimum of a Commercial Pilot’s Licence (Helicopter) with RT Licence and Class 1 Medical (unrestricted)
• A minimum of 1,500 hours total helicopter flying time which must include 50 hours flying at night including 20 hours PIC at night, 500 hours PIC overland under VMC and significant low flying experience. You will also need to demonstrate instrument flying experience.
• Ability to work as part of a team and be a self-starter
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely to the crew while carrying out other tasks
• A full UK driving licence
Benefits
• Fixed 4 on 4 off (2 days, 2 nights), 12-hour roster pattern offering a stable working routine and the ability to plan many months ahead. Pilots operate in accordance with the approved Flight Time Limitation (FTL).
• 19 shifts annual leave per year (19 x 12hr shifts) - the 4 on, 4 off shift pattern means you can have 12 consecutive days off by booking 4 consecutive days annual leave
• Additional annual leave / overtime for public holidays
• Additional annual leave upon completion of 5 years’ service
• Career average revalued earnings (CARE) pension scheme
• Potential to transfer to another NPAS base across England and Wales
• Medical expenses for maintaining Class 1 medical
• A Loss of Licence Insurance scheme
• Death in service payment
Our pilots talking about their role
Chief Pilot Paul Watts talking about the benefits of being an NPAS Pilot, what he's looking for in a pilot and more