Aviation Squad

Mission Statement

The primary mission of the Aviation Unit is to provide helicopter and fixed wing support to the police department with the goal of enhancing safety for both the officers on the ground as well as the public. Fixed wing and helicopter services are provided to the Criminal Investigative Division for surveillance operations and aerial support during arrest scenarios. Aviation services are also available to other city departments based on availability.

Basic Capabilities and Function

The Tampa Police Department Aviation Unit provides Aerial support and protection to Police Officers and the citizens of the City of Tampa on a 24-hour basis. The unit routinely flies 12- 16.5 hours per 24-hour period. The unit’s aircrew’s work 11.5 hour shifts with a two-crew overlap during peak hours.

The unit is nationally recognized as a trendsetter in gaining and applying new technology. The unit currently utilizes the Aerial Films Gyrocamâ systems, including; 2 Day/ Night Vision cameras, one Triple Sensor Day/ Night/ InfraRed Camera, and a Broadcast quality Day camera. All of these systems are capable of real time downlinking to all of the District Stations, a mobile Command Post and a Mobile Response Vehicle. This technology allows the Unit to be effective at all times of the day and night.

The Unit currently operates three Bell 407 helicopters. Each of these helicopters can seat 6 passengers plus the pilot, and has a flight time capability of approximately 3.5 hours. The unit also operates two military surplus OH-6 helicopters. These Vietnam era helicopters were received by the department in 1994, and are an economic value to the citizens of Tampa. They are normally operated with just a pilot and an observer and can stay on patrol for approximately two hours.

Unit Demographics

The Tampa Police Department Aviation Unit consists of 16 permanently assigned personnel. A Flight Supervisor oversees the unit. There are 6 pilots, all are qualified Commercial pilots with a Single Engine Instrument Airplane and Commercial Helicopter ratings. Also, several members of the unit possess Instructor certificates and Multi-Engine ratings. The total flight time of the unit's pilots is approximately 24,000 hours. The Unit is staffed with 6 Tactical Flight Officers. All of the unit’s maintenance is done in house, with three full time mechanics. The unit also has an assigned Materials Coordinator to assist with administrative duties.