What it takes to be a HAWCS pilot
Posted Mar 6, 2015 7:30 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
It’s one of the most visible Calgary Police units on the force, as well as one of its most competitive.
660News is taking a closer look at the air support unit this week, as it celebrates its 20th anniversary this summer.
Constables fight for a shot at being one of its tactical flight officers, and experienced pilots do the same to man the HAWCS helicopters.
Those pilots come from the military or the flying industry, and require 2500 hours in the air, including 300 which must be at night.
As for the constables, Sgt. Michelle Cave says the tests are extensive.
“We look for things like their spatial awareness when they are in the helicopter, obviously good communications skills because that’s such a huge part of what goes on in the helicopter with the ground units. Communication is — they have to be bang on with that,” she said.
Successful candidates then have to go through 10 weeks of training.
660’s Lucas Meyer will ride along on the chopper Sunday evening.
