Air Methods partners with Mauna Loa Helicopters to promote HEMS

US-based air ambulance provider Air Methods has partnered with Hawaiian helicopter operator and flight training provider Mauna Loa Helicopters to encourage aspiring pilots to enter the helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) sector.

The partnership launched last month, with two Mauna Loa pilots participating in a multi-day pilot training course in Denver, Colorado.

The course featured a range of classroom instruction, simulator sessions, and hands-on experience. Additionally, pilots received education in key areas, such as aeronautical decision-making, instrument flight rules (IFR) and GPS navigation, as well as aircraft and equipment security.

Mauna Loa Helicopters, which currently has 32 flight instructors in its employ, plans to send a group of instructors to the Air Methods training program on a quarterly basis.

“Our goal is to help bridge the gap between early-stage flight training and the highly specialized world of air medical services,” said Rob Hamilton, CEO of Air Methods. “By partnering with respected flight schools like Mauna Loa Helicopters, we’re opening doors for talented pilots to explore careers that combine aviation excellence with lifesaving impact.”

“Air Methods offers the kind of professional environment and mission-driven work that aligns with what many of our instructors aspire to,” said Benjamin Fouts, Owner of Mauna Loa Helicopters. “We’re excited to offer them access to this level of training, mentorship, and potential career pathways.”

Air Methods recently announced the opening of a new air ambulance base in Crawfordville, Florida, earlier this year.