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How To Become a Flight Nurse: Salary & Career Paths for 2025

Imed Bouchrika, Phd

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Some nurses aspire to work in high-intensity environments where they can apply their critical care expertise beyond the traditional hospital setting. Flight nursing offers such an opportunity, combining advanced medical care with rapid emergency transport. However, many do not know what qualifications, certifications, and experience they need to enter this specialized field. With over 5,500 nurses currently holding the certified flight registered nurse (CFRN) credential, the field remains highly competitive, making proper guidance essential for those looking to enter this career.

This article, prepared by experts in career planning, will guide you through the essential steps to become a flight nurse in 2025. It will cover educational requirements, necessary certifications, potential career paths, and salary expectations, providing you with the knowledge to navigate this rewarding profession.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming a Flight Nurse

  • Career Advancement Opportunities – Flight nurses can advance into roles such as critical care transport nurse, nurse educator, trauma nurse, healthcare risk manager, or advanced practice registered nurse (APRN).
  • Education Requirements – Becoming a flight nurse requires an RN license, typically earned through an ADN or BSN, with employers favoring BSN graduates for their broader training.
  • Diverse Work Setting – Flight nurses work in helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, and emergency response units across hospitals, private companies, government agencies, and military units.
  • Competitive Salary – As of 2025, flight nurses earn an average annual salary of $102,813, with total estimated pay reaching $118,525, influenced by experience and location.
  • Projected Job Outlook – Registered nursing jobs, including flight nursing, are projected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032, with approximately 194,500 annual job openings.

Table of Contents

  1. What is a flight nurse?
  2. How to Become a Flight Nurse for 2025?
  3. How much can you earn as a flight nurse?
  4. What are the career paths for flight nurses?
  5. What does a flight nurse do?
  6. What certifications and training programs are required for flight nurses?
  7. What are the essential skills required to be a flight nurse?
  8. What are the costs associated with becoming a flight nurse?
  9. What are the challenges faced by a flight nurse?
  10. How do flight nurse earnings compare to other advanced nursing roles?
  11. How Can Flight Nurses Stay Current With Industry Advancements?
  12. How Can Flight Nurses Manage Stress and Safeguard Their Mental Health?
  13. How Can You Finance Your Flight Nurse Education and Training?
  14. What is the job outlook for flight nurses?
  15. How Can Further Education Expand Your Flight Nursing Opportunities?
  16. What are the legal and ethical considerations in flight nursing?
  17. Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Flight Nurse

What is a flight nurse?

A flight nurse is a registered nurse (RN) who provides medical care to patients during air transport. These highly skilled professionals work in high-pressure environments, delivering care in helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft. They are part of aeromedical teams that transport critically ill or injured patients to hospitals or specialized medical facilities. 

Flight nurses work in a variety of settings, including:

  • Independent medical transport companies. Private air ambulance services that transport patients over long distances.
  • Fire departments. Emergency response teams that provide air medical support.
  • Search and rescue organizations. Teams that perform medical evacuations in remote or disaster-stricken areas.
  • Hospitals and trauma centers. Medical facilities with dedicated flight programs for patient transfers.
  • Federal, tribal, municipal, or local government agencies. Public health and emergency management organizations.
  • U.S. military or military reserves. Aeromedical evacuation units that transport injured service members.

How to Become a Flight Nurse in 2025?

Becoming a flight nurse requires specialized training, experience, and certifications to provide high-quality medical care during air transport. Follow these steps to pursue this career path:

Step 1: Earn a Nursing Degree

To become a flight nurse in the U.S., the first step is obtaining a nursing degree from an accredited program. Aspiring flight nurses can choose between an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). A BSN is often preferred by employers due to its more extensive coursework in leadership, research, and advanced patient care. Nursing programs include coursework in anatomy, pharmacology, and emergency care, as well as clinical rotations to gain hands-on experience.

Among registered nurses in the U.S., the most common degree is a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), held by 42.8% of nurses. This degree provides a competitive edge in the job market and is often a requirement for specialized roles, including flight nursing. Nurses with an ADN can also pursue RN to BSN online fast track programs to advance their education and career opportunities.

Step 2: Obtain Registered Nurse (RN) Licensure

After completing an accredited nursing program, aspiring flight nurses must obtain RN licensure to practice professionally in the United States. Licensure requirements vary by state, so it’s essential to check with the appropriate nursing regulatory agency for specific guidelines.

The licensure process involves several key steps:

  1. Apply for Licensure/Registration: Apply to your state's Nursing Regulatory Body (NRB) to determine eligibility for the NCLEX-RN exam.
  2. Register with Pearson VUE: After the NRB application, register for the NCLEX-RN through Pearson VUE, ensuring your name matches your identification. Submit the required exam fee using an acceptable payment method.
  3. Receive Authorization to Test (ATT): Once deemed eligible and registered, you'll receive an ATT email necessary for scheduling your exam. Use your ATT to set an exam date and location through Pearson VUE.
  4. Prepare and Take the Exam: Utilize study materials to ready yourself, then complete the NCLEX-RN on the scheduled date.
  5. Receive Exam Results: Await official results from your NRB. Upon passing, you'll obtain RN licensure, advancing your career path.

Step 3: Gain Critical Care Experience

Flight nurses must have hands-on experience managing critically ill and injured patients before transitioning to air transport roles. Most employers require at least 2-3 years of experience in intensive care units (ICUs), emergency departments (EDs), or other acute care settings. Working in high-pressure environments like ICUs and EDs prepares nurses to make swift, accurate decisions, a critical competency for flight nursing.

Step 4: Earn Specialized Certifications

Obtaining specialized certifications enhances your expertise and employability. The certified flight registered nurse (CFRN) credential, validates proficiency in flight nursing practices. Candidates must pass a comprehensive exam covering topics like transport nursing practice, resuscitation principles, trauma, medical emergencies, and care for special populations. 

Based on the CFRN pulse survey, key benefits of earning the credential include:

  • Sense of Accomplishment and Pride (90.7%)
  • Enhanced Flight Physiology Knowledge (85.4%)
  • Stronger Clinical Knowledge (83.4%)
  • Increased Confidence (80.6%)

Step 5: Apply for Flight Nurse Positions

Once you have the necessary education, licensure, experience, and certifications, the next step is securing a flight nurse position. This process involves thorough research, preparation, and meeting employer-specific requirements.  Here's how to approach this process:

  • Research Employers: Look for job openings with air medical transport companies, trauma centers, and government agencies like the military or law enforcement.
  • Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant experience in critical care, emergency response, and certifications like CFRN, ACLS, and PALS.
  • Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss past emergency scenarios, teamwork experiences, and your ability to function in high-stress environments.
  • Meet Physical Fitness Requirements: Many employers require candidates to pass physical fitness tests, as flight nurses must lift patients and equipment.
  • Obtain Additional Training: Some employers may require specialized training, such as helicopter safety courses or aeromedical evacuation programs.
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How much can you earn as a flight nurse?

As of 2025, the average annual salary for a flight nurse in the United States is $102,813, with a total estimated pay of $118,525 per year, including bonuses and additional compensation. The salary range typically falls between $94,000 and $151,000 per year.

Education and experience significantly influence the salary. Accelerated BSN programs can help aspiring flight nurses gain the education needed to advance their careers quickly, potentially increasing their earning potential. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of the pay scale, while those with advanced certifications and extensive experience can command higher wages.

Level of Experience
Average Salary (Per Year)
0-1 year
$86,211
1-3 years
$91,751
4-6 years
$95,444
7-9 years
$98,365
10-14 years
$103,886
15+ years
$108,751
Source: Glassdoor, 2025

Salaries can vary significantly based on location, with states like California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts offering some of the highest wages. This variation is often due to differences in the cost of living, demand for specialized nurses, and regional healthcare funding. 

What are the career paths for flight nurses?

Flight nurses can advance their careers in multiple directions based on their skills, education, and experience. Below are five common career paths for flight nurses.

1. Critical Care Transport Nurse

Critical care transport nurses provide emergency medical care while transferring critically ill or injured patients between hospitals, trauma centers, or specialty facilities. They work in helicopters, airplanes, and ground ambulances, stabilizing patients in high-pressure environments. Their expertise in advanced life support and trauma care ensures safe transport under challenging conditions.

Median salary: $94,610 per year

2. Nurse Educator

Nurse educators train future flight nurses, paramedics, and emergency medical personnel in prehospital and critical care medicine. They develop educational programs, conduct simulations, and update teams on the latest emergency response protocols. This role allows experienced flight nurses to pass on their knowledge and improve patient outcomes through education.

Median salary: $102,263 per year

3. Healthcare Risk Manager

Healthcare risk managers work to identify, analyze, and reduce risks associated with patient care, safety, and compliance. Former flight nurses in this role use their experience to develop protocols that improve emergency response procedures. They help hospitals and air medical programs minimize legal and operational risks while maintaining high standards of patient care.

Median salary: $111,556 per year

4. Trauma Nurse

Trauma nurses specialize in treating critically injured patients in emergency departments, trauma centers, and intensive care units. Many flight nurses transition into this role, bringing their expertise in rapid assessment and life-saving interventions. They collaborate with surgeons and emergency teams to stabilize patients in life-threatening situations.

Median salary: $107,028 per year

5. Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN)

APRNs, such as nurse practitioners or clinical nurse specialists, take on advanced roles in critical care and emergency transport. They assess, diagnose, and treat patients during medical flights. APRNs often specialize in trauma, cardiology, or neonatal transport. With additional certifications, APRNs can work autonomously. This expands their responsibilities beyond traditional flight nursing. Accelerated NP programs can help prepare these professionals for such roles.

Median salary: $112,339 per year

What does a flight nurse do?

Flight nurses perform a range of duties to provide medical care during air transport. They work in high-pressure environments, often responding to emergencies. Here are the key responsibilities:

  • Emergency Medical Care: Flight nurses respond to life-threatening situations, providing advanced medical treatment during transport. This includes administering medications, performing CPR, and managing trauma injuries.
  • Rapid Patient Stabilization: Patients often require immediate interventions to stabilize their condition. Flight nurses assess vital signs, control bleeding, secure airways, and initiate life-saving procedures.
  • Coordination with Medical Teams: Effective communication between emergency responders, hospital staff, and pilots is essential. Flight nurses relay patient information, assist with patient handovers, and ensure continuity of care.
  • Operation of Medical Equipment: Flight nurses are skilled in using ventilators, defibrillators, IV pumps, and other advanced medical devices required for in-flight patient care.
  • Flight Safety and Preparedness: On average, flight nurses spend 70% of their work hours in rotor wing aircraft. They follow strict aviation protocols, secure patients properly, and ensure all medical supplies are stocked and ready for emergency use.
  • Patient Advocacy and Documentation: Flight nurses advocate for patients' best interests, ensuring appropriate care is provided. They also maintain detailed records of treatments, medications, and patient status during transport.

If you're considering a shift to a career that involves patient care management, understanding care case manager requirements could help broaden your career options.

What certifications and training programs are required for flight nurses?

Flight nurses need a specific nursing certificate and training to handle medical emergencies in air transport. These qualifications ensure they can provide critical care in high-pressure environments and meet aviation safety standards.

Essential Certifications

Flight nurses need several foundational certifications to ensure they can handle medical emergencies in flight. Here are the key certifications you need

  • Basic Life Support (BLS): This certification is a fundamental requirement for all nurses, ensuring competency in performing CPR and other basic lifesaving procedures.
  • Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS): ACLS training is vital for managing heart-related emergencies such as cardiac arrest and arrhythmias, which are common in emergency transport.
  • Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS): Flight nurses must be prepared to treat children in critical situations, making PALS certification essential for handling pediatric emergencies.
  • Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP): This is necessary for nurses involved in transporting newborns, ensuring they are trained in neonatal emergency care and resuscitation techniques.

Advanced Certifications

Beyond the essential certifications, flight nurses can pursue advanced credentials to enhance their expertise in emergency and critical care transport. Here’s what you should consider obtaining.

  • Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN): Offered by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN), this is the gold standard certification for flight nurses. It demonstrates expertise in air medical transport, critical care, and trauma response.
  • Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN): This certification validates a nurse’s ability to handle emergencies in high-stress environments, a crucial skill for flight nurses.
  • Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN): Designed for nurses specializing in intensive care, this certification is valuable for those providing medical assistance in flight.

Specialized Training Programs

In addition to certifications, specialized training programs help flight nurses develop skills specific to air transport. These are the essential training programs for flight nurses.

  • Pre-Hospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS): This course trains flight nurses to manage trauma cases outside of hospitals. It prepares them to stabilize patients before reaching a medical facility.
  • Transport Professional Advanced Trauma Course (TPATC): This program focuses on handling trauma patients during transport. It teaches life-saving techniques for air and ground settings.
  • Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET): Flight nurses working over water must complete HUET training. It prepares them for emergency evacuations from an aircraft in case of a crash or water landing.
  • Aircraft Safety and Cabin Procedures: Flight nurses must learn aviation safety and emergency protocols. This training helps them work effectively with pilots and flight crews.

What are the essential skills required to be a flight nurse?

Flight nurses require a diverse skill set to handle medical emergencies in high-pressure environments. Their expertise ensures patient stability during air transport. Here are the essential skills needed for this demanding role:

Technical Skills Required for Flight Nursing

Flight nurses must have specialized medical knowledge and hands-on skills to provide life-saving interventions in unpredictable conditions. Here are the key technical skills required.

  • Advanced Airway Management: Flight nurses must be able to secure airways using intubation and ventilation techniques. Patients often require breathing support during transport.
  • Hemodynamic Monitoring: Blood pressure, heart function, and oxygen levels help nurses assess a patient’s stability. They must adjust care based on real-time data.
  • Trauma Care Expertise: Flight nurses treat patients with severe injuries, including fractures and internal bleeding. Quick assessments and interventions can improve survival rates.
  • Aviation Physiology Knowledge: Understanding how altitude affects the body is crucial. Flight nurses adjust treatments based on air pressure and oxygen levels.
  • Infection Control Measures: Air transport settings require strict hygiene protocols. Flight nurses must prevent infection while handling open wounds or critical patients.

General Skills Required for Flight Nursing

Beyond medical expertise, flight nurses need strong personal and professional skills. These are the key general skills.

  • Decision-Making Under Pressure: Flight nurses must make fast, accurate decisions. They have limited resources and time during emergencies.
  • Strong Communication: They must coordinate with pilots, paramedics, and hospital staff. Clear instructions can save lives.
  • Emotional Resilience: Flight nurses face life-and-death situations daily. They must stay focused and cope with stress.
  • Physical Stamina: Lifting patients and working in extreme conditions require endurance. Flight nurses need strength and agility.
  • Teamwork and Leadership: They work in small crews and must take charge when needed. Leadership ensures smooth patient care.

For those considering a career in healthcare and patient care, learning about the CNM career path can offer another rewarding option, especially for those interested in midwifery and providing specialized care in birth and reproductive health.

In addition to these essential skills, flight nurses must continuously develop their expertise through hands-on experience and specialized training. Gaining proficiency in patient care, which constitutes 21.30% of their responsibilities, helps them adapt to diverse medical scenarios.

What are the costs associated with becoming a flight nurse?

Becoming a flight nurse involves various educational expenses. Pursuing a bachelor of science in nursing can cost between $20,000 and $80,000 at public institutions, while private schools may charge $60,000 to $120,000. Factors influencing tuition include residency status, with out-of-state students often paying higher fees. Additionally, online nursing school might offer cost savings compared to on-campus options due to reduced overhead and associated expenses.

Beyond tuition, additional costs include certification exams, such as the certified flight registered nurse (CFRN) credential, which has associated fees. Other expenses encompass study materials, uniforms, equipment, and continuing education courses required for maintaining certifications. Prospective flight nurses should also budget for potential travel and lodging expenses related to clinical rotations or specialized training programs.

What are the challenges faced by a flight nurse?

Flight nurses encounter numerous challenges in their line of work, requiring resilience, adaptability, and a high level of expertise. Below are the five major difficulties flight nurses face and how they manage them.

1. High-Stress Situations

Flight nurses work in high-pressure environments where every second counts. To manage stress, they rely on rigorous training, teamwork, and experience. Staying calm under pressure, following protocols, and practicing quick decision-making help them provide effective care. Many also use mindfulness techniques and mental conditioning to stay focused.

2. Limited Resources and Space

Unlike hospitals, air ambulances have minimal medical supplies and cramped working conditions. Flight nurses adapt by prioritizing treatments and using compact, multi-functional medical tools. They train extensively in resource management, learning how to stabilize patients with limited equipment while maintaining clear communication with hospital teams.

3. Exposure to Harsh Conditions

Flight nurses work in extreme weather, from scorching heat to freezing temperatures. To handle these conditions, they wear specialized gear, adapt medical procedures for different climates, and undergo safety training. They also work closely with pilots to assess weather risks and ensure safe operations.

4. Long and Irregular Hours

Emergency calls happen at all hours, leading to unpredictable shifts. Flight nurses manage fatigue by following structured sleep schedules, staying hydrated, and practicing self-care. Many rotate shifts strategically, ensuring proper rest between flights. Team support and strong time management help maintain work-life balance.

5. Physical and Emotional Demands

Lifting patients, carrying equipment, and working in confined spaces require strength and endurance. A flight nurse undergo physical fitness training to prevent injuries. Emotionally, they rely on peer support, counseling, and debriefing sessions to process difficult cases. Many also engage in stress-relief activities like exercise or hobbies to prevent burnout.

While the rewards of flight nursing are significant, the job's demands are similar in intensity to other high-responsibility outdoor roles. For example, discussions about forest ranger salary often consider not just earnings but also the physical and environmental challenges tied to conservation work in remote areas—similar in some respects to the unique conditions flight nurses face in the air.

How do flight nurse earnings compare to other advanced nursing roles?

Flight nurses benefit from competitive salaries that reflect the demanding environment and specialized expertise required in air medical care. A detailed comparison with related advanced practice roles can help professionals make informed career decisions. For instance, while flight nurse earnings are influenced by variables such as region, experience, and certification status, advanced roles like nurse practitioners in psychiatry may offer parallel compensation packages and benefits. Prospective candidates can examine differences in earning potential by comparing comprehensive market data, such as the psych NP salary, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of where flight nursing stands within the broader spectrum of advanced nursing careers.

How Can Flight Nurses Stay Current With Industry Advancements?

Flight nurses must continuously update their technical and clinical skills to adapt to rapidly evolving healthcare technologies and air transport requirements. Regular participation in targeted professional development initiatives—such as industry conferences, specialized workshops, and advanced certification courses—ensures that practitioners remain at the forefront of innovations in patient care and aviation safety. Furthermore, establishing robust professional networks aids in sharing best practices and emerging trends critical to high-quality, timely care in emergency settings. Enrolling in focused academic programs, such as the 6-month RN to BSN program, offers an effective pathway to refresh foundational knowledge and integrate the latest clinical advancements into everyday practice.

How Can Flight Nurses Manage Stress and Safeguard Their Mental Health?

Flight nursing is marked by high-pressure decision-making and unpredictable work conditions, making mental and emotional resilience essential. Effective strategies include structured debriefings after critical incidents, regular sessions with specialized counselors, and participation in peer support groups focused on occupational stress. Utilizing mindfulness techniques and stress-reduction practices can also mitigate burnout. Moreover, exploring advanced mental health pathways alongside clinical education—such as pursuing affordable online PMHNP programs—can offer flight nurses additional tools to enhance well-being and maintain professional longevity.

How Can You Finance Your Flight Nurse Education and Training?

Flight nurse education involves significant investment in tuition, fees, and specialized training activities. Aspiring professionals should explore tailored financial aid options including scholarships, grants, and employer reimbursement plans designed for healthcare workers. Many accredited institutions offer financial counseling to help evaluate eligibility and application deadlines, ensuring that candidates can reduce personal expenses. Opting for cost-effective pathways—such as the easiest online RN to BSN program—can streamline progression while managing costs effectively.

What is the job outlook for flight nurses?

The employment of registered nurses (RNs) is projected to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This growth encompasses specialized fields such as flight nursing, driven by factors like an aging population and increased demand for medical services. While the BLS does not provide specific data for flight nurses, the overall positive trend for RNs suggests favorable prospects for those in this specialty.

Annually, there are expected to be approximately 194,500 job openings for registered nurses, including flight nurses, over the next decade. These opportunities stem from workforce turnover, career shifts, and retirements. Similar to other specialized career paths—such as those exploring how to get into a fraud investigation job—pursuing flight nursing requires targeted training, relevant certifications, and real-world experience. With the right preparation, aspiring flight nurses can take advantage of strong job demand and make a meaningful impact in critical care settings.

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How Can Further Education Expand Your Flight Nursing Opportunities?

Flight nurses looking to deepen clinical expertise and broaden career prospects may benefit from additional academic pathways that bridge advanced practice and leadership roles. Pursuing specialized degree-bridge programs, such as transitioning from ADN to a master’s-level qualification, enhances skills in clinical decision-making, aeromedical operations, and regulatory compliance. This additional training can lead to roles in critical management, education, or advanced clinical practice. Many professionals explore opportunities via ADN to NP programs online to secure a competitive edge in an evolving healthcare landscape.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Becoming a Flight Nurse

Becoming a flight nurse wasn’t easy, I had to earn my BSN, get ICU experience, and complete certifications like CFRN. The work is intense, with long shifts, unpredictable emergencies, and limited resources in the air. But nothing compares to stabilizing a critical patient mid-flight and knowing I made a difference. – Ronald

I spent years working in an ER before moving into flight nursing, and the transition was tough. In the air, you have to rely on your training, quick thinking, and the small team beside you. The challenges are real, but the reward of saving lives in extreme conditions makes it all worth it. – Dani

Flight nursing isn’t just medical care—it’s handling aviation protocols, altitude effects, and tight spaces. Critical care experience and specialized training got me here, and I can’t imagine doing anything else. If you thrive under pressure, it’s incredibly rewarding. – Judy

What are the legal and ethical considerations in flight nursing?

Flight nurses operate in a dual framework of healthcare and aviation regulations, requiring strict adherence to both clinical and legal standards. Their practice involves navigating liability issues during emergency care while ensuring thorough and accurate documentation under challenging conditions. Professionals must understand informed consent in rapidly evolving situations and maintain patient confidentiality despite limited space and resources. Additionally, compliance with aviation safety standards and healthcare policies demands periodic training and legal updates. Some flight nurses enhance their expertise through advanced education, such as 1 year FNP programs, which provide insights into ethical decision-making and risk management integral to this role.

Key Findings

  • The cost of becoming a flight nurse ranges from $20,000 to $120,000, depending on the nursing program, certification fees, and specialized training.
  • Flight nurses spend 70% of their work hours in rotor wing aircraft, requiring expertise in airborne medical emergencies.
  • To qualify, flight nurses need at least 2-3 years of critical care experience, along with specialized certifications like CFRN, ACLS, and PALS.
  • Over 5,500 nurses currently hold the certified flight registered nurse (CFRN) credential, highlighting the competitiveness of the field.
  • Over 90% of certified flight registered nurses feel a deep sense of accomplishment and pride after obtaining their credential.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Flight Nurse

What degree do you need to become a flight nurse?

To become a flight nurse, you must first become a registered nurse (RN), which requires completing either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). After earning your degree, you need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain your RN license. While both ADN and BSN degrees qualify you to become an RN, many employers prefer candidates with a BSN due to the comprehensive education and training it provides.

What is the difference between a travel nurse and a flight nurse?

A travel nurse is a registered nurse who takes temporary assignments in various locations, often to fill short-term staffing needs in hospitals or clinics. In contrast, a flight nurse specializes in providing medical care to patients during air transport, such as in helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft. Flight nurses require additional training in aviation safety and critical care to manage emergencies in transit, whereas travel nurses adapt to different healthcare settings without the aviation component.

How long does it take to become a flight nurse?

Becoming a flight nurse typically takes between five to nine years, depending on your educational path and experience. This includes completing a nursing program (two to four years), passing the NCLEX-RN exam, and obtaining licensure. After becoming an RN, gaining three to five years of experience in critical care or emergency nursing is essential before pursuing flight nurse positions.

Do flight nurses need to be trained in aviation?

Yes, flight nurses must undergo specialized training in aviation safety to effectively operate in air medical transport environments. This training includes understanding aircraft protocols, safety procedures, and the physiological effects of altitude on patients. Such knowledge ensures that flight nurses can provide optimal care during air transport and collaborate efficiently with the flight crew.

References:

  • Air Medical Journal. (2023). Flight nurse roles and responsibilities. Air Medical Journal. Retrieved March 27, 2025, from Air Medical Journal.
  • Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN). (n.d.). Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN). BCEN. Retrieved March 27, 2025, from BCEN.
  • Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN). (2023). CFRN commitment to excellence. BCEN. Retrieved March 27, 2025, from BCEN.
  • Glassdoor. (2025). Flight nurse salary. Glassdoor. Retrieved March 27, 2025, from Glassdoor.
  • NursingEducation.org. (n.d.). How to become a flight nurse. NursingEducation.org. Retrieved March 27, 2025, from NursingEducation.org.
  • ZipRecruiter. (n.d.). Advanced practice registered nurse salary. ZipRecruiter. Retrieved March 27, 2025, from ZipRecruiter.
  • ZipRecruiter. (n.d.). Critical care transport nurse salary. ZipRecruiter. Retrieved March 27, 2025, from ZipRecruiter.
  • ZipRecruiter. (n.d.). Healthcare risk management salary. ZipRecruiter. Retrieved March 27, 2025, from ZipRecruiter.
  • ZipRecruiter. (n.d.). Nurse educator salary. ZipRecruiter. Retrieved March 27, 2025, from ZipRecruiter.
  • ZipRecruiter. (n.d.). Trauma nurse salary. ZipRecruiter. Retrieved March 27, 2025, from ZipRecruiter.

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