DPS Celebrates 75 Years of Aircraft Operations Division’s Vital Role in Texas Law Enforcement
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) celebrated National Aviation Day on August 19th by recognizing the enduring contributions of its Aircraft Operations Division (AOD). This division has been instrumental in supporting the DPS mission to protect and serve the citizens of Texas for 75 years.
“For 75 years, the Aircraft Operations Division has played a vital role in DPS’ mission to protect and serve Texas,” said DPS Director Steven McCraw. “From airplanes transporting special investigative teams and helicopters performing rescue missions, to unmanned drones tracking down criminals on the run, aircraft has enhanced our ability to provide unparalleled protection to people across the many miles that make up Texas.”
The AOD was officially established in October 1949, with the commissioning of its first aircraft, a single-engine Navion, and a dedicated pilot. The division’s primary goal was to improve the department’s capacity to meet the growing transportation needs of specialized investigative teams, equipment, and key personnel.
Today, the AOD has grown to become one of the largest airborne law enforcement units in the United States. It operates out of 12 duty stations across Texas, with a fleet of 26 state-of-the-art aircraft, including 15 Airbus A-Stars (nine of which have hoist capabilities), one Airbus EC145 C2, one Bell 412, two Pilatus PC-12NGs, four Cessna Caravans, two Cessna 206s, and one Beechcraft King Air 350. The division also manages over 350 Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, which are employed in a wide range of missions including border security, capitol security, traffic accident reconstruction, and crime scene investigation.
AOD pilots and Tactical Flight Officers (TFOs) are commissioned DPS officers, with the exception of three non-commissioned pilot positions. Pilots hold at least a commercial pilot license with instrument ratings and receive ongoing training from the AOD’s training staff. Many also earn additional certifications such as Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), Certified Flight Instrument Instructor (CFII), Multi-Engine, and Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) ratings during their time with DPS.
The division plays a crucial role in statewide air patrols, criminal surveillance, and advanced rescue operations. AOD’s air patrols leverage technology to locate and apprehend fugitives, deter criminal activity, and support Texas’ Operation Lone Star border security mission. Additionally, AOD assists in search and rescue efforts alongside local, state, and federal first responders during disaster-related events.
In recognition of its excellence, the AOD has been awarded the Excellence in Police Aviation Award by the International Association of Chiefs of Police four times in the last 15 years. The AOD remains a cornerstone of the DPS, continuing to play a vital role in every area under the department’s responsibility.