Perseverance is persistence in adhering to a course of action, a belief, or a purpose. I don't see that has anything to do with riding in a helicopter

continued steady belief or efforts withstanding discouragement

Yes, the noun 'perseverance' is an abstract noun; a word for persistence in adhering to a course of action, a belief, or a purpose; a word for a concept.

Ben Carson's qualities are: Perseverance, Discipline, Determination, belief, hope, care and faith.

c. belief perseverance.