Helicopter Pilot
As a Helicopter Pilot, you’ll work in a tight-knit team carrying out a variety of missions, contributing to your ship's tactical operations and humanitarian missions at sea and ashore. Fly across land and seas controlling some of the most advanced aircraft in Australia.
What you'll do
You’ll be responsible for piloting helicopters landing safely on moving ships at sea, working in diverse weather conditions and hovering above submarines. You’ll ensure they are flown within appropriate parameters while not exceeding performance limitations.
Your duties may include:
- operating the MH-60R Seahawk helicopter
- search and rescue
- anti-submarine warfare
- surface warfare
- air logistics and troop transport
- medical evacuation
- supporting boarding and amphibious operations.
You'll also perform additional general duties that support the whole ship, including:
- ship security, firefighting and replenishment at sea
- boarding party, first aid, flood repair and flight deck
- assisting with medical, ammunitioning or ceremonial duties
- shift work, or on-call duties as required.
Opportunities for progression and upskilling continue throughout your career as an officer. As you progress, the Navy will provide you with leadership, management, and specialist skills training to develop your ability to effectively manage your teams. You’ll also be provided with training opportunities to further develop your role-related expertise. This world-class training will strengthen your skillset and enable you to become an influential leader in the Navy allowing you to face any challenge, either at sea or ashore.
As an officer in the Navy, you may also undertake a posting to an Any Officer role during your career, such as instructor/training roles and staff officer roles. This experience helps you broaden your skill set and prepare for more senior roles.
On completion of your training, you’ll be mainly based at HMAS Albatross, Nowra, NSW. Throughout your career, you’ll also conduct postings to sea. Opportunities may also exist for short periods (4-6 months) of overseas operational service.
Discover where the Navy operates across Australia on our base locations map.
It has been rewarding and challenging captaining the crew, launching off the ship and executing missions.
Requirements and training
You must be an Australian citizen to serve in the ADF. However, Australian permanent residents may be eligible. For more details, visit the "Citizenship" tab on the Eligibility Requirements page.
You can apply to join ADFA from 16 years of age and must be at least 17 on the day of entry. The maximum age to join is 46 years.
You don’t need a driver’s licence for this role but if you have one, it can’t be suspended or cancelled.
All ADF members require a security clearance. As an ADF member, you’ll need to obtain the appropriate level of security clearance for your role. You’ll need a collection of relevant information including background checks and/or interviews so the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA) can make an informed assessment to ensure the protection of Government resources and information. Your Careers Coach will explain what level of clearance is required for the career you are considering.
For more information or to learn about how security clearance will apply to you, view the eligibility requirements page.
To be eligible for admission to the University of New South Wales (UNSW) at ADFA, you’ll need to have completed Year 12 and obtained an entrance rank high enough to qualify for entry into the relevant degree:
- Arts
- Business
- Science
- Computing and Cyber Security or
- (Bachelor of Technology) Aeronautical Engineering.
Note: As well as applying to the Navy for entry, you’ll also need to apply to the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) for entry to the University of New South Wales (UNSW). For more information, visit the UAC website or our ADFA page.
While at ADFA, you won’t incur a HECS-HELP debt as the Navy will cover the cost of your course up to the Commonwealth Supported Place amount. This includes the higher costs associated with ADFA studies and may also cover any necessary equipment and education materials.
Navy Midshipmen can leave ADFA at any time within their first year. Please note, if you choose to leave university, you'll be expected to reimburse the ADF for the academic training provided to date (i.e. you are not liable for the full cost if you leave before completion of the course). However, if you leave university but continue your career in the ADF by transferring to a Direct Entry role, you will not be expected to reimburse the ADF in this case.
To join the Navy, it's important that you meet the necessary medical and physical requirements. Regular exercise prior to joining will set you up for success as it is an important part of training and service life.
Once you join, Navy will support your physical conditioning to ensure you're prepared to serve. You'll also have access to chef-made meals, gyms, sports and fitness sessions run by physical training instructors. Throughout your Navy career, you’ll be expected to conduct an annual fitness test which includes a plank as well as either a beep test or run/walk or swim.
During the application process you’ll be assessed through a questionnaire about your medical history and a physical examination.
Medical
For the purposes of Special Medical Requirements, Pilots are classified as 'Aviation Class 1'. Aviation Class 1: Helicopter Pilots require a Body Mass Index (BMI) range of 18.5 to 32.9 and a body weight of between 55 and 100kg (measured in underwear). A body weight outside this range in incompatible with pilot training. You’ll also need to have speech that is clear and free from impediment.
Height
- Height – minimum 163 and maximum 193cm.
- Sitting height – maximum 100cm.
- Buttock to knee length – maximum 67cm.
- Buttock to heel length -–maximum 122cm.
The Navy swim test
During Navy Military Training, whether heading to the New Entry Sailor Course (Recruit School) or the New Entry Officer Course, you'll need to pass a swim test wearing your uniform to graduate. For a demonstration on what is required, watch the Navy Swim Test video.
- safety jump off a 3m tower
- 10m underwater swim
- 50m swim using survival strokes
- treading water or floating for 15 minutes.
For further details on medical and physical fitness standards, refer to physical fitness standards for entry into the ADF and medical process for entry into the ADF.
You’ll be appointed for an Initial Minimum Period of Service (IMPS) of 14 years. Subsequent periods of service may be offered subject to the requirements of the ADF and your suitability for further service.
For ADFA officers in the Navy who undertake Navy training in their first year of appointment, you may resign up until the graduation day of your first year of study (which generally equates with having completed by then 2 years of Navy service). You’ll have a Careers Coach who can advise on how IMPS will relate to your chosen occupation and personal situation.
You may request discharge at any time provided you do not have an outstanding IMPS obligation and provide a minimum of 3 months' notice.
Selection Requirements
Your suitability to become part of Officer Aviation (OA) is evaluated in detail through a primary and secondary selection system. Primary selection is conducted by ADF Careers at your closest ADF Careers Centre (ADFCC) and includes multiple interviews, initial medical screening and the written Officer Aviation Test Battery (OATB). To assist you in preparing for the mental maths required in this role, please read this Mental Mathematics document.
If you’re assessed as suitable, you’ll progress to the secondary assessment stage, which includes the Aviation Screening Program (ASP) and if successful there, the Officer Selection Board (OSB).
The ASP is a 2-day event (plus travel days) where you’ll join a group of up to 10 candidates to evaluate your suitability and to introduce you to all the OA streams in depth as well. You’ll gain first-hand exposure to the training, recreational and accommodation facilities at the RAAF Base East Sale and talk to current students and instructors at the various schools that make up the Air Academy (AirA). You’ll even be loaned a flight suit to wear for the duration of the ASP, allowing you to fully experience life in military aviation.
Over the 2 days, you’ll also complete a range of Officer Aviation specific tests to assess your cognitive aptitude and potential to learn in the highly dynamic aviation training environment. Aviation aptitude is assessed using the Military Aviation Cognitive Assessment System (MACTS), which is a series of computer-based tests conducted over two four-hour sessions. Joining instructions and preparation guides will be provided to you by your Enlistment Coordinator (EC).
At the end of the ASP, you’ll meet with a debriefing officer to receive your MACTS results and discuss the Officer Aviation (OA) career options that you have been assessed as suitable for – Aviation Warfare Officer (Navy), Remote Pilot Warfare Officer (Navy), Mission (RAAF) or Pilot (Navy, Army and/or RAAF).
Finally, you’ll be given a progression letter detailing all the OA options that are available to you. You’ll have 10 days to respond to your EC with your preferences. You are strongly encouraged to discuss all options with your family and friends and to explore any new options that you may not have previously considered. If you choose to proceed, your application will progress to the Officer Selection Board. If you are unsuccessful, you have the option to attend one more (final) ASP no sooner than 12 months from your first attempt.
If you proceed with any Navy options, you’ll be invited to attend a Navy Officer Selection Board which will give you the opportunity to display your true potential to be a Naval Officer. The OSB Selection Panel is made up of Navy Officers and a Psychologist and together they will assess your suitability and motivation to become a Naval Officer as well as your chosen role through a series of formal interview questions and tasks.
Experience
Aviation experience is not required for the role however it is highly recommended you gain some kind of experience in a small aircraft. Even a single 30-minute Flight Experience or Familiarisation Flight could be either highly motivating, or help you realise the airborne environment may not be for you.
Course: New Entry Officers’ Course (NEOC)
Duration: 18 weeks
Location: HMAS Creswell, Jervis Bay, NSW
You’ll begin your career by completing NEOC immediately upon entry into the Navy. NEOC is conducted in January and July each year at the Royal Australian Naval College. This is designed to teach the knowledge, skills and attributes required to be an effective junior naval officer.
NEOC course
- Physical fitness: General fitness, adventure training and the Navy swim test.
- Military life: Discipline, mannerisms, uniform procedures and Defence studies.
- Specialty skills: Small arms weapons training, first aid and survival at sea.
- Navy skills: Drill and ceremonial procedures, officer of the day duties, rank structure and Naval history.
- Leadership skills: High Functioning Teams Training and Military Resilience Training.
- Personal development: Leadership and management (including practical exercises), effective oral and written communication methods.
On completion of your NEOC course, you’ll proceed to your respective employment training.
Course: Year One Familiarisation Training (YOFT)
Duration: 5 weeks
Location: Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA), ACT
YOFT is Initial Military Training to prepare you for life in the ADF. It’s made up of the fundamental basic lessons and requirements to allow you to thrive and succeed in your new career.
Training includes:
- leadership
- ceremonial
- field training
- physical training
- adventurous training
- weapon training.
Course: Joint Military Education and Training (JMET)
Duration: 10 hours per week
Location: Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA), ACT
ADFA’s JMET program establishes foundational military knowledge for Trainee Officers (TOs) in the profession of arms.
JMET has 5 core modules:
- Foundational Military Skills
- National Security Policy and Strategy
- Character Leadership and Ethics
- Technology and Capability
- Joint Warfare.
JMET integrates the professional military education of TOs with the academic program to establish foundational skills and historical, philosophical and technical literacy. The ADFA program of JMET and academic studies encourages curiosity and critical thinking so that TOs understand their role as leaders within the ADF, and their service’s contribution to the Joint Force.
JMET training:
- character, leadership and ethics
- drill and ceremonial
- field craft
- joint warfare
- national security, policy and strategy
- physical training
- technology and capability
- weapons training.
Course: Single Service Training (SST)
Duration: During academic semester breaks
Location: Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA), ACT
Navy SST furthers your skills, knowledge and attributes gained in your first year in the Navy, and provides you the opportunity to undertake work experience and training in your chosen specialisation.
- Degree related work experience.
- Navy culture and traditions.
- Professional development work experience and outplacements.
- Seamanship and mariner skills.
- Teamwork and leadership.
Course: BPC + IPC
Duration: 52 weeks
Location: Number 1 Flying Training School (1FTS), RAAF Base East Sale, Vic or Number 2 Flying Training School (2FTS), RAAF Base Pearce, WA
Course description: You’ll start your military flying career with BPC, which includes flying and simulation. This course includes, but is not limited to:
- flying manoeuvres (flying circuits, basic aerobatics, stalling and emergency handling)
- basic instrument interpretation skills
- flying instrument approaches
- ground training including aerodynamics, aircraft systems, airmanship, air power, air traffic control, aviation medicine, cockpit systems, meteorology, Morse code, and navigation.
Following BPC+ IPC , you'll undergo Helicopter Rotary conversion, which includes 135 hours of flying and simulation on an EC-135 helicopter. You’ll be introduced to the fundamentals of helicopter flying, emergency handling, formation flying and low-level navigation.
You will complete the entire training package at the ADF Helicopter School in HMAS Albatross
Course: EC-135 Eurocopter – Pilot Rotary Conversion
Duration: 36 weeks
Location: 723 SQN, HMAS Albatross, NSW
Description:
- Phase 1 Basic Aviation Phase – you’ll commence your rotary flying training in the EC-135 helicopter. This includes both simulator and actual flying in visual and instrument navigation as well as fuel planning and emergency handling.
- Phase 2 Advanced Aviation Phase – you’ll be introduced to night vision devices, utility operations and embarked flying.
Course: MH-60R Seahawk – Pilot Operational Flying Training
Duration: 52 weeks
Location: 725 SQN, HMAS Albatross, NSW
- You’ll continue your training on the MH-60R Seahawk helicopter where you’ll team up with Navy aviation warfare officers. Together, you’ll first learn how to fly the aircraft before learning how to fight it. The first phase of the course comprises of general flying duties, emergency training, night vision, ship-deck operations, search and rescue, utility, instrument flying and sensor operation, allowing you to safely operate the Seahawk. The second phase is where you will learn advanced Anti-Surface and Anti-Submarine warfare and tactics.
Course: Aviation Medicine
Duration: One week
Location: Institute of Aviation Medicine at RAAF Base Edinburgh, SA
You’ll learn to understand and how manage the physiological challenges of flight such as G-forces and hypoxia.
Course: Aircrew Combat Survive Evade Resist Escape (SERE)
Duration: Two weeks
Location: Combat Survival Training School, RAAF Base Townsville, Qld
You’ll learn how to survive in arduous and/or hostile environments during domestic and combat downed aircraft scenarios.
Course: Helicopter Underwater Escape Training
Duration: One day
Location: HMAS Albatross
In a state-of-the-art facility, you’ll learn how to safely egress a submerged helicopter both with and without emergency breathing devices as well as other sea survival techniques.
Sub Specialist Option
A range of follow-on training may be available to Navy Helicopter Pilots including:
Qualified Flying Instructor: teach others to operate the various aircraft you flew on your way to becoming a Navy Pilot.
Test Pilot: conduct flight testing and trials as part of the Navy’s Aircraft Maintenance and Flight Test Unit.
General Naval Officer training: throughout your career, you’ll undertake non-aviation training to further broaden your military officer abilities in preparation for future staff, executive and command roles in the wider Navy, ADF and other government agencies, both nationally and internationally.
You must be an Australian citizen to serve in the ADF. However, Australian permanent residents may be eligible. For more details, visit the "Citizenship" tab on the Eligibility Requirements page.
You can apply for a role in the ADF from 16.5 years of age and must be at least 17 to join. The maximum age to join is 49 years.
You don’t need a driver’s licence for this role but if you have one, it can’t be suspended or cancelled.
All ADF members require a security clearance. As an ADF member, you’ll need to obtain the appropriate level of security clearance for your role. You’ll need a collection of relevant information including background checks and/or interviews so the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA) can make an informed assessment to ensure the protection of Government resources and information. Your Careers Coach will explain what level of clearance is required for the career you are considering.
For more information or to learn about how security clearance will apply to you, view the eligibility requirements page.
You’ll need to have either completed Year 12 with passes in English and 3 other board accredited academic subjects or be in your final year and on track to pass them all. A pass in Year 10 Science is also required.
The completion of Year 12 university entry level Maths (unmodified) and Physics or multi-strand science is highly desirable.
Degree-qualified entrants will normally be granted seniority as a Midshipman.
To join the Navy, it's important that you meet the necessary medical and physical requirements. Regular exercise prior to joining will set you up for success as it is an important part of training and service life.
Once you join, Navy will support your physical conditioning to ensure you're prepared to serve. You'll also have access to chef-made meals, gyms, sports and fitness sessions run by physical training instructors. Throughout your Navy career, you’ll be expected to conduct an annual fitness test which includes a plank as well as either a beep test or run/walk or swim.
During the application process, you’ll be assessed through questionnaire about your medical history and a physical examination.
Medical
For the purposes of Special Medical Requirements, Pilots are classified as 'Aviation Class 1'. Aviation Class 1: Helicopter Pilots require a Body Mass Index (BMI) range of 18.5 to 32.9 and a body weight of between 55 and 100kg (measured in underwear). A body weight outside this range in incompatible with pilot training. You’ll also need to have speech that is clear and free from impediment.
Height
- Height – minimum 163 and maximum 193cm.
- Sitting height – maximum 100cm.
- Buttock to knee length – maximum 67cm.
- Buttock to heel length -–maximum 122cm.
The Navy swim test
During Navy Military Training, whether heading to the New Entry Sailor Course (Recruit School) or the New Entry Officer Course, you'll need to pass a swim test wearing your uniform to graduate. For a demonstration on what is required, watch the Navy Swim Test video.
- safety jump off a 3m tower
- 10m underwater swim
- 50m swim using survival strokes
- treading water or floating for 15 minutes.
For further details on medical and physical fitness standards, refer to physical fitness standards for entry into the ADF and medical process for entry into the ADF.
You’ll be appointed for an Initial Minimum Period of Service (IMPS) of 11 years. Subsequent periods of service may be offered subject to the requirements of the ADF and your suitability for further service. You’ll have a Careers Coach who can advise on how IMPS will relate to your chosen occupation and personal situation.
You may request discharge at any time provided you do not have an outstanding IMPS obligation and provide a minimum of 3 months’ notice.
Selection Requirements
Your suitability to become part of Officer Aviation (OA) is evaluated in detail through a primary and secondary selection system. Primary selection is conducted by ADF Careers at your closest ADF Careers Centre (ADFCC) and includes multiple interviews, initial medical screening and the written Officer Aviation Test Battery (OATB). To assist you in preparing for the mental maths required in this role, please read this Mental Mathematics document.
If you’re assessed as suitable, you’ll progress to the secondary assessment stage, which includes the Aviation Screening Program (ASP) and if successful there, the Officer Selection Board (OSB).
The ASP is a 2-day event (plus travel days) where you’ll join a group of up to 10 candidates to evaluate your suitability and to introduce you to all the OA streams in depth as well. You’ll gain first-hand exposure to the training, recreational and accommodation facilities at the RAAF Base East Sale and talk to current students and instructors at the various schools that make up the Air Academy (AirA). You’ll even be loaned a flight suit to wear for the duration of the ASP, allowing you to fully experience life in military aviation.
Over the 2 days, you’ll also complete a range of Officer Aviation specific tests to assess your cognitive aptitude and potential to learn in the highly dynamic aviation training environment. Aviation aptitude is assessed using the Military Aviation Cognitive Assessment System (MACTS), which is a series of computer-based tests conducted over two four-hour sessions. Joining instructions and preparation guides will be provided to you by your Enlistment Coordinator (EC).
At the end of the ASP, you’ll meet with a debriefing officer to receive your MACTS results and discuss the Officer Aviation (OA) career options that you have been assessed as suitable for – Aviation Warfare Officer (Navy), Remote Pilot Warfare Officer (Navy), Mission (RAAF) or Pilot (Navy, Army and/or RAAF).
Finally, you’ll be given a progression letter detailing all the OA options that are available to you. You’ll have 10 days to respond to your EC with your preferences. You are strongly encouraged to discuss all options with your family and friends and to explore any new options that you may not have previously considered. If you choose to proceed, your application will progress to the Officer Selection Board. If you are unsuccessful, you have the option to attend one more (final) ASP no sooner than 12 months from your first attempt.
If you proceed with any Navy options, you’ll be invited to attend a Navy Officer Selection Board which will give you the opportunity to display your true potential to be a Naval Officer. The OSB Selection Panel is made up of Navy Officers and a Psychologist and together they will assess your suitability and motivation to become a Naval Officer as well as your chosen role through a series of formal interview questions and tasks.
Experience
Aviation experience is not required for the role however it is highly recommended you gain some kind of experience in a small aircraft. Even a single 30-minute Flight Experience or Familiarisation Flight could be either highly motivating, or help you realise the airborne environment may not be for you.
Course: New Entry Officers’ Course (NEOC)
Duration: 18 weeks
Location: HMAS Creswell, Jervis Bay, NSW
You’ll begin your career by completing NEOC immediately upon entry into the Navy. NEOC is conducted in January and July each year at the Royal Australian Naval College. This is designed to teach the knowledge, skills and attributes required to be an effective junior naval officer.
NEOC course
- Physical fitness: General fitness, adventure training and the Navy swim test.
- Military life: Discipline, mannerisms, uniform procedures and Defence studies.
- Specialty skills: Small arms weapons training, first aid and survival at sea.
- Navy skills: Drill and ceremonial procedures, officer of the day duties, rank structure and Naval history.
- Leadership skills: High Functioning Teams Training and Military Resilience Training.
- Personal development: Leadership and management (including practical exercises), effective oral and written communication methods.
On completion of your NEOC course, you’ll proceed to your respective employment training.
Course: BPC + IPC
Duration: 52 weeks
Location: Number 1 Flying Training School (1FTS), RAAF Base East Sale, Vic or Number 2 Flying Training School (2FTS), RAAF Base Pearce, WA
Course description: You’ll start your military flying career with BPC, which includes flying and simulation. This course includes, but is not limited to:
- flying manoeuvres (flying circuits, basic aerobatics, stalling and emergency handling)
- basic instrument interpretation skills
- flying instrument approaches
- ground training including aerodynamics, aircraft systems, airmanship, air power, air traffic control, aviation medicine, cockpit systems, meteorology, Morse code, and navigation.
Following BPC+ IPC , you'll undergo Helicopter Rotary conversion, which includes 135 hours of flying and simulation on an EC-135 helicopter. You’ll be introduced to the fundamentals of helicopter flying, emergency handling, formation flying and low-level navigation.
You will complete the entire training package at the ADF Helicopter School in HMAS Albatross
Course: EC-135 Eurocopter – Pilot Rotary Conversion
Duration: 36 weeks
Location: 723 SQN, HMAS Albatross, NSW
Description:
- Phase 1 Basic Aviation Phase – you’ll commence your rotary flying training in the EC-135 helicopter. This includes both simulator and actual flying in visual and instrument navigation as well as fuel planning and emergency handling.
- Phase 2 Advanced Aviation Phase – you’ll be introduced to night vision devices, utility operations and embarked flying.
Course: MH-60R Seahawk – Pilot Operational Flying Training
Duration: 52 weeks
Location: 725 SQN, HMAS Albatross, NSW
- You’ll continue your training on the MH-60R Seahawk helicopter where you’ll team up with Navy aviation warfare officers. Together, you’ll first learn how to fly the aircraft before learning how to fight it. The first phase of the course comprises of general flying duties, emergency training, night vision, ship-deck operations, search and rescue, utility, instrument flying and sensor operation, allowing you to safely operate the Seahawk. The second phase is where you will learn advanced Anti-Surface and Anti-Submarine warfare and tactics.
Course: Aviation Medicine
Duration: One week
Location: Institute of Aviation Medicine at RAAF Base Edinburgh, SA
You’ll learn to understand and how manage the physiological challenges of flight such as G-forces and hypoxia.
Course: Aircrew Combat Survive Evade Resist Escape (SERE)
Duration: 2 weeks
Location: Combat Survival Training School, RAAF Base Townsville, Qld
You’ll learn how to survive in arduous and/or hostile environments during domestic and combat downed aircraft scenarios.
Course: Helicopter Underwater Escape Training
Duration: One day
Location: HMAS Albatross
In a state-of-the-art facility, you’ll learn how to safely egress a submerged helicopter both with and without emergency breathing devices as well as other sea survival techniques.
Sub Specialist Option
A range of follow-on training may be available to Navy Helicopter Pilots including:
Qualified Flying Instructor: teach others to operate the various aircraft you flew on your way to becoming a Navy Pilot.
Test Pilot: conduct flight testing and trials as part of the Navy’s Aircraft Maintenance and Flight Test Unit.
General Naval Officer training: throughout your career, you’ll undertake non-aviation training to further broaden your military officer abilities in preparation for future staff, executive and command roles in the wider Navy, ADF and other government agencies, both nationally and internationally.