Sometimes FBI investigations take flight. When an investigator needs to make an arrest in difficult terrain, conduct a medical evacuation, or track a suspect's vehicle, FBI helicopter pilots answer the call. These pilots are trained to fly in difficult environments and weather conditions.

Yes, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) does hire helicopter pilots, primarily through its Specialized Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) units and the elite Hostage Rescue Team (HRT). These pilots are part of the FBI's Tactical Helicopter Unit (THU), which is based out of Quantico, Virginia, but has assets deployed at various field offices throughout the United States. Unlike many other agencies, the FBI typically requires its pilots to be "Special Agents" first. This means you must meet all the rigorous entry requirements of a standard FBI agent, including a four-year degree, several years of professional experience, and passing the physical and psychological background checks. Once you are a Special Agent, you can apply for the aviation program if you meet the flight hour requirements, which often mirror those of high-level military or commercial pilots (typically 1,500 to 2,000 hours). These pilots perform a wide variety of missions, including high-altitude surveillance, transporting tactical teams to "active shooter" or "high-risk" scenes, and conducting search and rescue operations. It is a highly specialized and competitive career path that combines the investigative duties of a federal agent with the precision of a tactical aviator.