The Alternative Lost Target Hoist Procedure

Every helicopter and operator has a unique cockpit view and hoisting sight picture. However, as a general rule, when the hoist height of the helicopter equals or exceeds the length of the vessel, the pilot will likely not be able to maintain visual reference with the vessel when positioned directly over the hoist area. For example, if the aircraft is hovering at 40’ and the boat is also 40’ in length, the pilot may be unable to see the bow when hoisting to the stern or vice versa. 

Certain aircraft configurations can improve visibility. Features like cockpit doors removed, bubble windows, or large side windows that extend the length of the door offer better visibility of the hoist area. But in many helicopters—especially those with standard window configurations that begin at the lower-torso—maintaining visual reference with a small boat during a hoist can be difficult (See the Losing Visual Reference with the Vessel While Hoisting post). 

However, as vessel size decreases, performance often increases. This creates an opportunity to reverse the traditional hoist model: instead of the helicopter maneuvering into position over a boat, the boat approaches a stable helicopter hovering on a steady course and speed. This technique—frequently used in MEDEVAC scenarios involving highly capable boat operators—relies on several key components and, when executed correctly, can result in a safe and highly effective hoist. 

Key components that make this method effective include: 

1. Helicopter positioning: The combination of aircraft altitude, groundspeed, heading, and wind velocity and direction should place rotor wash behind the hoist area (i.e., directly beneath the hoist drum), keeping the target hoist area relatively unaffected. 
2. Vessel capability: The boat must be able to maneuver well at a speed that exceeds the helicopter’s groundspeed, allowing it to drive into the hoist position beneath the aircraft with precision. 
3. Boat operator proficiency: This method requires a skilled driver—someone who can adjust boat position relative to the helicopter while maintaining situational awareness. 
4. Unobstructed visibility: The boat operator needs a clear line of sight to the helicopter hoist, enabling real-time positioning relative to the hoist area. 
5. Favorable environmental conditions: Factors such as sea state, wind, and hazards to vessel navigation must allow the vessel to remain stable under the aircraft long enough to safely complete the hoist. 
6. Experienced boat crew: The boat’s crew must be familiar with this hoisting technique, clearly communicating expectations over the radio can be difficult. Training prior to an operational MEDEVAC allows the crew to execute their role without delay or confusion. 

I’ve successfully conducted this type of hoist with special operations teams and well-resourced ocean lifeguard agencies. These groups have the training, equipment, and experience to perform this evolution smoothly and safely. With regular practice, this becomes a reliable and efficient alternative for conducting helicopter MEDEVACs from small, capable vessels. 

One consistently effective method I’ve observed involves the boat approaching from the side of the helicopter and maneuvering just forward of the hoist drum, then slowly backing down relative to the aircraft. This approach avoids rotor wash exposure, which would otherwise be encountered if the vessel approached from the rear or moved forward through the downwash. The use of a trail line also enhances both safety and efficiency, providing an extra measure of control and stability during the evolution, particularly during the device delivery and swimmer deployment. 

It’s important to note that attempting this type of hoist “on the fly” with private boaters, part-time responders, or vessels that lack the required handling characteristics or line of sight for the boat driver significantly increases the risk. In such cases, transferring the patient to a rescue swimmer in the water, a larger platform, or directly to shore are all preferable alternatives.