Helicopter pilots in a rescue service are exposed to particular stresses and strains. The crew only know the destination of the flight when the alarm is raised. There is no time for a thorough flight preparation since the Air Rescue helicopters are in the air within two minutes. No sooner have they been deployed than they are looking for a suitable landing place. On top of this there is the mental strain during the return transport of a seriously injured or ill patient who is fighting for his life. In every situation the pilots must be able to act safely and quickly.

Beside the primary emergency rescue operations the helicopter pilot's area of activity also extends to cable winch operations, searches and other special operations.

All Air Rescue pilots have many years of flying experience. Pilots who wish to enter the rescue service must be able to prove at least 2,000 flying hours.