How to Become a Flight Nurse

Flight nurses play a critical role in providing emergency care in the most challenging of environments — up in the air.

As highly trained medical professionals, they assist in client transport and provide lifesaving care while navigating the unique challenges of air travel. In this guide, we’ll explain how to become a flight nurse.

Steps on How to Become a Flight Nurse

Like many types of nurses, becoming a flight nurse requires dedication and specific training to handle the unique demands of air medical transport.

Below are the flight nurse requirements and steps you need to take.

1. Become a registered nurse (RN).

First, you must become a licensed RN, earning an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN).

Many flight nurse positions prefer a BSN due to the advanced skills acquired through this degree. After earning a nursing degree, you also have to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).

2. Gain critical care experience.

Flight nurses need substantial experience in critical care settings, like an intensive care unit (ICU) or emergency room (ER).

Depending on the employer’s requirements, this typically includes at least two to five years of hands-on experience.

3. Meet physical requirements.

Flight nurses must meet specific physical requirements, including a weight limit.

The weight limit varies by employer but usually falls between 225 and 250 pounds, accounting for the need to maneuver safely in confined aircraft spaces.

4. Earn relevant certifications.

Most employers require flight nurses to have certifications like:

• Advanced cardiovascular life support (ACLS)
• Pediatric advanced life support (PALS)
• Critical care registered nurse (CCRN)
• Certified emergency nurse (CEN)

The certified flight registered nurse (CFRN) is highly recommended and sometimes required.

5. Complete flight nurse training programs.

Some hospitals and organizations offer specific flight nurse training programs, which provide specialized education in:

• Flight physiology
• Aeromedical evacuation
• Survival skills

These programs prepare you for the unique conditions of air medical transport.

6. Apply for flight nurse positions.

Once you have the necessary experience, certifications, and training, you can apply for flight nurse positions with:

• Air medical transport companies
• Hospitals
• Government and military agencies
• Research institutions
• Search and rescue teams
• Trauma facilities

Tailor your nursing resume to showcase your critical care experience and certifications.

7. Continue education and training.

Stay updated with ongoing education and training to maintain certifications and improve your skills.

Download Our Nursing Resume Templates

Whether you’re a new nurse or trying to move into flight nursing, our nursing resume templates and cover letters can help you take those next steps.

What Do Flight Nurses Do?

So, what does a flight nurse do?

Flight nurses provide critical care to clients transported by helicopter or airplane.

They perform a variety of duties, including:

• Administering emergency medical care during transport
• Monitoring clients’ vital signs and responding to changes
• Collaborating with flight paramedics and pilots to ensure safe transport
• Using specialized equipment for client stabilization
• Handling the unique challenges of providing care in a moving aircraft

Flight nurses must be adaptable, as they often deal with rapidly changing situations in confined spaces and with limited resources.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Flight Nurse in the US?

The time it takes to become a flight nurse depends on your education path and the amount of critical care experience needed.

Generally, it takes:

• 2-4 years to become an RN, depending on whether you pursue an ADN or BSN
• 2-5 years of critical care experience in settings like the ICU or ER
• Additional time to complete specialized certifications and training

Overall, it takes 5-10 years to start your nursing education and become a flight nurse.

Is It Hard to Be a Flight Nurse?

Being a flight nurse is a challenging role that requires:

• Communication
• Empathy
• Quick, decisive action in critical situations
• Physical stamina
• Mental resilience
• Strong critical care skills
• The ability to work effectively as part of a team in unpredictable conditions

Working in an aircraft involves dealing with high-stress situations, limited medical resources, and the physical demands of providing care in cramped quarters.

What’s the Average Salary for a Flight Nurse?

A flight nurse salary can vary widely depending on factors such as:

• Location
• Experience
• The employer

On average, a flight nurse in the United States earns $109,709 annually, with higher pay opportunities based on overtime and additional certifications.

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