NCJ Number
81165
Journal
Police Research Bulletin Issue: 37 Dated: (Autumn 1981) Pages: 38-45
Date Published
1981
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article reports the trial use of fixed-wing aircraft in support of police surveillance, aerial photography, traffic observation, transport, and aerial search operations in the Hampshire area of Britain, begun in 1978.
Abstract
Described are the considerations involved in the selection of flight crews, training and operational flying, communications, costs, and fixed-wing craft in comparison with the helicopter. Three officers were chosen with pilot's licenses, endorsements of instrument meteorological conditions rating, and radio telephony licenses. Selection criteria also included night flying rating and at least 100 hours as pilot in command. Actual flying began in February 1979 and the subsequent experience has demonstrated that given a professional approach and sound flying techniques, a fixed wing aircraft can be effectively employed for search, surveillance, escort, and photographic tasks. Air controllers have been supportive of the program, giving priority to the police aircraft. The greatest operational drawback has been the lack of good quality communications: an airband company frequency must be allocated for police use by the authorities and appropriate equipment purchased by the police department. Although the fixed-wing aircraft does not have the hover capability of the helicopter, this feature is needed only rarely. One hour's flying time is estimated to cost 25 British pounds for the fixed wing plane while the helicopter's hourly expense is 220 British pounds (1980). Alternatives for the future may be the Edgely Optica (prototype) and the lightweight Autogyro, which are short take off and landing (STOL) vehicles. They promise to be more cost effective than helicopters. Photographs, a map, and tables are provided.