The STAR Flight Rider/Observer Program provides a learning opportunity in the air-medical environment to public safety colleagues, health care partners, family and other designated individuals.  The program is designed to provide an observational experience into the medical care and operational aspects of our flight program. 

 Authorized riders include: 

–                     City Council Members or Aides

–                     County Commissioner or Aides

–                     Quality Assurance Team members

–                     First Responders

–                     Physicians

–                     Law Enforcement Personnel

–                     Hospital Personnel

–                     STAR Flight employee’s family

–                     Employees from A/TCEMS or other Emergency Medical Services (EMS) departments.

–                     Any other person authorized by a member of the management team (Program Manager, Director of Aviation, Chief Pilot, STAR Flight District Commander).
 

 Eligibility:

–                     Candidates must be at least 18 years of age

–                     A weight limit of 220 lbs with flight suit and footwear. Candidates must also be able to fit into the aircraft seats and restraint belts. This requires a waist size of no larger than 44 inches and a height of less than 6’3”.

–                     Candidates must be in reasonable physical condition to allow entry and exit of aircraft.

 STAR Flight crewmembers may sign up observers for their respective shifts.  If this is not possible, the rider should be referred to the STAR Flight District Commander.  Observers are restricted to riding out between the hours of 08:00-19:00.  If a rider does not get a flight during the scheduled shift they may sign up for an additional ride out.  Otherwise, participants are limited to one ride out per year.

 Riders should report to the crew quarters located beneath the helipad at Brackenridge Hospital at 8:00am and depart promptly at the end of the shift.  The observer will be provided a Nomex flight suit and observer flight helmet.  The rider is expected to supply undershirt and shorts or long underwear (preferably cotton) to be worn under flight suit and sturdy footwear, preferably boots.  Participants are to arrange for their own meals by either bringing food or bringing money to cover the cost of eating out.  A busy STAR Flight shift may result in extended periods of time with little opportunity for nutrition, hydration or rest.  All riders are expected to maintain a high level of professionalism and patient confidentiality.  Riders are restricted to observation only.

 Unless prior approval is obtained from a member of the management team, the use of cell phones, cameras (still or video), or any other recording device is prohibited during STAR Flight missions.

 STAR Flight’s unique mission profile encompasses different public safety missions including search and rescue, fire suppression and law enforcement.  Participants in the rider program will not be allowed on any public-safety flights. 

 The weight of a fourth person can have significant impact on the operation of the aircraft. If the flight crew is notified before they depart the pad that there is or maybe multiple patients the rider may not be allowed on the flight.  Due to unforeseen circumstances, there is a chance that an observer could be left at a hospital or accident scene.  STAR Flight will make a reasonable effort for the return of the rider in a timely manner.

 The on-duty STAR Flight crew has the right to terminate an observer’s scheduled shift at any time. 

 

Contact Information

 Phone (512) 854-6464
Email:glenn.anderson@ci.austin.tx.us

 STAR Flight
7800 Old Manor Rd.
Austin, TX 78724