A team of longtime helicopter and fire/rescue industry professionals have joined forces to enhance safety and training opportunities for companies, pilots and crewmembers alike. Advanced Helicopter + Rescue Techniques LLC (AH+RT), based in Portland, Ore., provides comprehensive training services covering a variety of rotary wing, aerial firefighting and technical rescue skill sets. The company also offers ‘turn-key’ aviation program operations and aviation program management consulting.

A proud member of the Helicopter Association International, AH+RT team members will be available to meet during HAI’s 2013 HELI EXPO, March 5-7 in Las Vegas, Nev.

AH+RT differentiates itself from other companies by training clients in a continuum of rescue and aerial firefighting techniques. At the same time, AH+RT provides consulting services for program development, implementation and ongoing program management.

By combining the right training personnel with comprehensive program management expertise, AH+RT benefits clients with a ‘one-stop-shop’ service. This approach can build a successful foundation for a fire/rescue/aviation program’s future.

The company is working closely with Simplex Aerospace to offer aerial firefighting training. Mark Zimmerman, Simplex’s President & CEO states: “Offering Simplex’s customers comprehensive training and support services is key to ensure overall flight safety and mission effectiveness. We are pleased to be working with the experienced, highly capable and professional AH+RT team.”

Co-founder and pilot Chris Hartnell says AH+RT’s team has committed itself to improving operational safety industry-wide.

“We formed our team based upon a recognition of needs within the helicopter industry for full-service training covering all elements of fire and rescue operations,” stated Hartnell. “Our goal is to develop operational standardization in programs to increase safety and efficiency of ground and aerial operations. By providing effective training programs, AH+RT can potentially assist in mishap avoidance across the industry.”

“AH+RT consists of active professionals, so we relate well to the challenges facing agencies and companies alike,” added Hartnell. “Our team is constantly practicing the methods taught in our curriculum.”

The company’s ‘Your Mission is our Mission’ motto is embodied in its training staff’s career-long dedication to the industry, allowing trainers to readily help clients achieve maximum safety and operational effectiveness.

Advanced Helicopter + Rescue Techniques offers a combination of training specializing in helicopter wildland firefighting (day/night/NVG), advanced NVG rescue operations, day, night, land, mountainous and water environment flying, technical rescue as well as tactical operations.

“Achieving safe and effective operations has been the core of success for our team during decades of flight and rescue operations,” added Hartnell. “With this experience base, AH+RT knows safety is paramount and that we have vested interest in the success of each and every one of our customers.”

About Advanced Helicopter + Rescue Techniques LLC
Founded in 2011, Advanced Helicopter + Rescue Techniques offers the highest quality of training based on years of operational experience. AH+RT specializes in helicopter wildland firefighting (day/night/NVG); advanced NVG rescue operations; day, night, land, mountainous and water environment flying, technical rescue as well as tactical operations. All courses meet or exceed current FAA, Transport Canada, NFPA, and International Standards. Training is conducted by personnel well versed and highly experienced in all company offered training areas. AH+RT can customize programs to meet the needs of both existing and start-up operations, including turn-key programs, train the trainer and full staffing.

AH+RT is comprised of currently active aviation fire and rescue professionals who have dedicated their lives to providing the highest level of public service possible. With 80 years of combined experience, members of AH+RT have participated in aviation rescue, firefighting training and actual missions that span the North and South American Continents.