Helo Will Join LAPD's Air Support Division

On Monday, the Los Angeles Police Department took delivery of its 14th AS350B2 from American Eurocopter. The helicopter will join a mixed fleet of rotary and fixed wing aircraft in the LAPD's Air Support Division.

"We chose the AS350B2 because of the aircraft's mission flexibility, durability and reliability," said Sergeant Jorge Gonzalez, the officer in charge of the ASD's support section. "It really is the ideal platform for us."

The AS350B2 is a popular choice for local law enforcement, due in part to its 732 shp Turbomeca Arriel 1D1 engine, room for six passengers plus pilot and a sling capacity of more than 2,555 lbs. Eurocopter says the helicopter's adaptability makes it suitable for a variety of law enforcement missions including special operations and emergency medevacs.

The type is an integral part of the ASD fleet, and helps the LAPD provide backup to the city's patrol officers. The LAPD's ASD also conducts high altitude surveillance missions, and serves as transport for SWAT insertions and dog search teams.

"The missions are the same only the vehicle has changed," Gonzalez noted.

To highlight this unity, the AS350B2 will be completed with the LAPD's new black and white paint scheme for the Air Support Division. "We are there to protect and support our fellow officers on the ground and we are bringing back the standard black and white paint scheme to re-emphasize this point," said Gonzalez.

FMI: www.eurocopterusa.com, www.lapdonline.org/