FB Heliservices Helicopter Training

Valley

The Search and Rescue Training Unit is an independent unit based at RAF Valley on Anglesey and is part of the Defence Helicopter Flying School based at RAF Shawbury

Its main purpose is to provide all Royal Air Force helicopter aircrew with basic Search and Rescue skills and can train pilots, rearcrew and instructors

FB Heliservices provides 3 specially modified Bell 412EP helicopters, 40% of the SARTU instructional staff and all the engineering and Safety Equipment support

Each helicopter is fitted with an electric rescue hoist which can lift up to 600 lbs on 250 ft of cable. It has a variable speed operation and the student winch operator's control can be overridden by the instructor

Floatation gear is fitted which will inflate on ditching to support the aircraft level on the surface of the water

The cabin is heavily modified with additional hard points in the roof for crewman harnesses, stowage for specialist SAR equipment and a waterproof floor and wall to reduce corrosion.

Training courses include winching to decks and cliff and mountain rescue techniques

Middle Wallop - Netheravon - Shawbury - Valley