Detailed Pilot Tour PLUS Cost to Run the Westpac Rescue Helicopter

Join me inside the Westpac Rescue Helicopter AW139 for an exclusive tour and interview with pilot Scott, filmed at the Belmont base in NSW. In this video, we break down what it takes to become a rescue helicopter pilot, how emergency missions work, and the massive costs involved in operating a medical rescue helicopter. Scott explains the long career path from commercial licence to multi-engine IFR operations, what it’s like flying with a doctor, paramedic and air crew officer, and how the team responds to missions within 5–10 minutes of getting a call. We look at how they land safely at night using NVGs, how they navigate storms and powerlines, and why the AW139 can fly on one engine if needed. You’ll also learn fascinating behind-the-scenes details: • How the cabin functions like an airborne ambulance, carrying blood, medical packs and rescue equipment • How the winch system works and why it costs $260,000 • The price of rotor blades, tail rotors and the $1M engines • Fuel burn of 520 litres per hour and why a long mission can cost $5,000+ in fuel alone • Fleet size across Belmont, Tamworth and Lismore, and how medivac priority works through restricted airspace • How crews manage 24/7 operations, night shifts and rapid turnarounds • How the helicopter is funded through NSW Ambulance, Westpac sponsorship and community donations This was an incredible experience sitting in the cockpit, learning how the crew performs search and rescue, snake bite response, flood rescues and emergency medical transport across NSW. A big thanks to Zoe for making this video happen. Donation link: https://rescuehelicopter.com.au/donate/ You never know—one day it might be you they save. #WestpacRescueHelicopter #AW139 #RescueHelicopter #HelicopterTour #HelicopterPilot #SearchAndRescue #AviationAustralia #HelicopterInterview #BeSnappy #MedicalRescue