.png)
Ray Poss is a highly experienced Chief Pilot at Archangel Aviation, bringing over 30 years of expertise in rotor-wing aviation, pilot instruction, and operational leadership. Throughout his career, he has held critical roles, including Senior Rotor-Wing Instructor Pilot (IP), Check Airman, and Director of Operations, excelling in both flight training and operational management in diverse and challenging environments worldwide.
✅ Ray appeared in both the M.A.S.H. movie and TV series. Gary Burghoff, (Radar) and I were the only two from the
cast that came from the Movie to the TV Series..
✅ Instructor for the Army Helicopter Flight Training During the Vietnam War — Fort Wolters (Mineral Wells, Texas), Civilian Instructor.
✅ While flying under contract with the bureau of land management (BLM), I flew on desert fires, and tall tree fires in the mountains surrounding Las Vegas. Flying a Hughes 500 helicopter with a Bambi Bucket.
✅ One of the first rescue helicopters at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino fire on Friday, November 21, 1980.
✅ In 1978, I flew for EG&G, a company supporting the Department of Energy, as the newly hired chief pilot for airborne security at the Nevada Test Site (Area 51).
✅ My adventures spanned the globe—from Mexico to Doha, Qatar; Point Barrow, Alaska; Zamboanga, Philippines; Archangel; and many places in between—and included the Gulf War.
✅ Senior Rotor-Wing Instructor Pilot & Check Airman – AAR Airlift Group, Melbourne, FL.
✅ Line Pilot, Flight Instructor & Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) – Evergreen Helicopters, Philippines
✅ Chief Pilot & Director of Operations – Aviation Specialties, Boise, ID
Ray is a recognized leader in aviation safety, Night Vision Goggle (NVG) training, and international flight operations, shaping the next generation of pilots with his mentorship and commitment to excellence.
Ray Poss’ career is defined by dedication, skill, and a passion for flying. Whether training pilots, ensuring high safety standards, or sharing his insights through storytelling, Ray continues to inspire and educate aviators worldwide.
As far back as I can remember, so many have told me to
write a book. Please remember that, I’m a helicopter pilot’s when reading.
There is so many stories that I could write about and maybe I’ll write more stories in the future.
For those of you that wanted the stories I have told over the years. Thank you for wanting these stories and having me write
them.
I hope you enjoy.
Ray
After flying for 62 years, I still love it. I have traveled and flown all over the world and would not trade one moment of time. Watching Aviation evolve has been very exciting. Flying in the old days with a map in hand and following a highway has certainly changed. Today we have laptops connected to satellites for navigation and the cockpits are computerized and coupled to autopilot. At this time in my career I will not fly outside of city lights at night time without night vision goggles, unless I'm on an instrument flight plan. Why you ask, I know better.
Beyond his distinguished career in aviation, Ray Poss is the author of One Helicopter Pilot’s Experiences, a memoir chronicling his 62-year journey in flight. From navigating with maps and highways to flying with advanced satellite technology, Ray shares captivating stories of adventure, resilience, and the evolution of aviation. His book is a must-read for aviation enthusiasts, offering a rare glimpse into the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned in a lifetime spent in the skies.