Here in Austin, Texas —
In observance of National Aviation Day, the Aircraft Operations Division (AOD) of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is being honored for the 75 years of valuable service it has provided.
According to DPS Director Steven McCraw, the Aircraft Operations Division has been an integral part of DPS’s mission to safeguard and assist the people of Texas for the past 75 years. “Aircraft has enhanced our ability to provide unparalleled protection to people across the many miles that make up Texas,” the statement read. “From airplanes transporting special investigative teams and helicopters performing rescue missions to unmanned drones tracking down criminals on the run.”
To address the increasing demand for transportation of specialized investigative teams, equipment, and other essential personnel, AOD was formally established by DPS in October 1949. Its first aircraft, a single-engine Navion, and pilot were commissioned at that time.
This branch now conducts flying patrols over the state, monitors criminal activity, and handles high-tech rescue missions. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) uses air patrols as a tool to assist Operation Lone Star, which aims to secure the state’s borders, find and capture wanted criminals, and discourage criminal behavior. In the event of a disaster, AOD also lends a hand to the search and rescue operations conducted by federal, state, and local authorities.
With 12 bases of operations, 26 aircraft outfitted with cutting-edge equipment, and over 100 members strong, AOD ranks among the nation’s largest airborne law enforcement forces. Fifty police pilots and thirty-five tactical flight officers make up the division. Fifteen Airbus A-Stars, nine of which are equipped with hoist capabilities, are part of the fleet.
SEE MORE –
Out Of Control! Walmart Suspends Drone Services in Select States, Focus Shifts to Dallas-Fort Worth
There is also one Airbus EC145 C2, a Bell 412, two Pilatus PC-12NGs, four Cessna Caravans, two Cessna 206s, and a Beechcraft King Air 350. On top of that, the department’s 350 UAS RPICs are licensed, trained, and regulated by AOD. Border patrol, capitol protection, traffic accident reconstruction, and crime scene investigation are just a few of the many operations carried out by the more than 350 unmanned aerial system (drone) systems owned by the agency.
All but three of the AOD pilot and TFO posts are held by commissioned officers of the DPS. The AOD training team ensures that pilots get ongoing pilot training and that they hold a minimum of a commercial pilot license with instrument ratings.
Upon completion of their flight training at DPS, pilots are prepared to fly airplanes and helicopters at higher ratings, such as Airline Transport Pilot (ATP), Multi-Engine, Certified Flight Instrument Instructor (CFII), and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI).
Over the past fifteen years, the International Association of Chiefs of Police has presented the Excellence in Police Aviation Award four times to DPS’s AOD. AOD is still fundamental to DPS and is involved in all aspects of the department’s work.