Episode #176: HEMS Safety, Data, and Decision-Making | Steve Soliz of Bell

Send us Fan MailWelcome to The Helicopter Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Helicopter Podcast, Halsey Schider sits down with Steve Soliz from Bell to discuss the evolving landscape of helicopter emergency medical services.Steve brings a global perspective to the conversation, breaking down how HEMS operations are adapting through advancements in avionics, autopilot systems, and data-driven mission planning. The discussion focuses on how these tools are reducing pilot workload while improving situational awareness and overall mission safety.They also explore the differences between North American and European EMS operations, including how regulatory environments, aircraft selection, and medical protocols are shaped by data and operational constraints. Steve highlights the importance of crew resource management, emphasizing how communication and trust between pilots and medical crews play a critical role in preventing incidents and managing risk.This episode is a grounded look at how technology, human factors, and decision-making continue to shape safer, more effective EMS operations worldwide.Thank you to this episode's sponsors, Hillsboro Heli Academy, Precision Aviation Group and Metro Aviation.