About us 

You are here:

The Unit evolves

First Police Helicopters

By the summer of 1990, the number of pilots was increased to provide late shift cover on three days every week, taking advantage of the night-flying capability of the helicopter.

In 1991, the BO105 was replaced by a leased Aerospatiale AS355F1 twin engine ‘Squirrel’ designated G-PASE. This aircraft was quieter and more comfortable for the crew.

The Unit responded to occasional requests from neighbouring police forces on a mutual aid basis. In 1992, a formal mutual aid agreement was signed with Hertfordshire Constabulary and Bedfordshire Police. The Unit would now provide 25 flying hours per annum for each police force.

By June 1992, the Unit had three full-time pilots, flying hours were increased to 750 per annum and the team of observers was increased to a sergeant and five constables. Later that year, a thermal imaging camera was fitted to the helicopter, a first for UK police aviation, which enhanced night and day operations.