The flight of a helicopter is affected by a number of atmospheric variables which hamper or help performance. Temperature, humidity, and altitude all conspire to affect the capability of the rotors to generate lift from the air that circulates around it.
   Keeping these factors in mind, publisher Ask Kodansha may explain away the measured pace of Air Ranger as keeping the flight of a helicopter true to life. As part of an air rescue team, players choose from an Aerospatiale helicopter, a McDonnell Douglas MD-900 Explorer, or a Boeing CH-47D Chinook. The Chinook overwhelms the air with it's twin-turbine, tandem-rotor transport capabilities. The effective useful load of the CH-47D sits at an impressive 25,000 lbs. In the military, Chinooks are used as transport vehicles for troops, ammunition, and supplies. In civilian service, medical evacuation, aircraft recovery, fire fighting, and disaster relief. The player gets called to various hot spots on land and water, and must bring supplies, move obstructions, or rescue hapless citizens from the perils of daily living.
   Two modes of play are available: A game rescue mode where you play the missions and a Beginner mode which features four options: Lesson, Lecture, Helicopter Profile, and Free Flight.