NCJ Number
155143
Date Published
1995
Length
158 pages
Annotation
The role of helicopters in public service operations, including law enforcement, is described in this Bell Helicopter publication.
Abstract
Bell has produced more than 32,000 helicopters, and many have been sold to law enforcement, medical transport, and fire control organizations. Of over 250 law enforcement aviation units operating nearly 2,000 helicopters worldwide, more than 60 percent use aircraft manufactured by Bell. Procedures involved in planning a law enforcement helicopter unit are outlined that focus on mission, organizational structure, unit management, pilot and observer selection, communication, community relations, operational costs, recordkeeping, heliports, emergency response, survivability, and training. Reasons for having a police helicopter unit are cited that relate to patrol response time, police officer safety, special teams, command and control, drug control, and firefighting support. Features of different Bell helicopter models are described and illustrated, and a product and services directory is included. Illustrations and photographs