USHST offers peer support to helicopter search-and-rescue crews Houston, Texas (July 2025) – In the wake of the challenging search, rescue, and recovery operations along the Guadalupe River in Texas, the US Helicopter Safety Team (USHST) is offering mental health support through its Peer Pilot Program to helicopter pilots and aircrew members involved in these critical missions. The USHST Peer Pilot Program is composed of trained helicopter pilot volunteers who offer confidential, judgment-free peer support, backed by a licensed aviation psychologist. This program is available free of charge to any helicopter pilot or crew member, with no impact on their FAA medical certification. Pilots or aircrew members can access support through any of the following platforms: • Directly at ushstpeer.org • Via the Mental Health tab at ushst.org • Through the Hughes Aerospace mobile app. “The US Helicopter Safety Team stands ready to provide mental health support from pilot peers to the helicopter first responders engaged in the search, rescue, and recovery operations along the Guadalupe River,” says Chris Baur, chairman of the US Helicopter Safety Team. “As a veteran search-and-rescue pilot, I’ve seen firsthand the emotional and psychological toll these missions can take. We honor the dedication of these pilots and crews, and we’re here to support them, during and after this critical work.” “Through its Peer Pilot Program, the USHST has taken the lead in advancing mental health support for the entire helicopter community. VAI is proud to support this important work,” says Chris Hill, VAI senior director of safety. “Providing peer support has been demonstrated to be very effective: talking to a peer counselor resolves issues 80% of the time. I hope everyone who reads this realizes that free, confidential help for pilots and aircrews is available.” The USHST remains committed to advancing safety in the helicopter community by supporting the total well-being of helicopter professionals—both in the air and on the ground. For more information about the Peer Pilot Program, visit ushstpeer.org or contact info@ushst.org.
