NYPD AVIATION UNIT

The Aviation Bureau began in 1929 when the Police Air Services Division was established from funds donated by Rodman Wanamaker, a famed World War I ace. One of the first planes purchased was a three seated Loening Commuter Amphibian, powered by a 90 horsepower engine. The third seat, was called the "Angel" seat, which was kept vacant for the angel the crew hoped would ride with them on each flight. One of the first rescues was made when two swimmers were carried away by the tide. The water was too choppy for landing; the copilot leaped from the flying plane into the water and both swimmers were towed to shore. The Aviation Unit acquired the first helicopter to be used in Police work in 1948. In 1967, it entered the jet age with the acquisition of a single turbine engine helicopter. The current fleet of aircraft includes seven turbine helicopters. The NYPD Aviation Unit is the oldest airborne law enforcement unit in the world.

Current Fleet

Two (2) Bell 41SP Heavy duty, twin engine helicopters

One (1) Bolkow BO 105 light duty, twin engine helicopter

Four (4) Bell 206B light duty, single engine helicopters

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