AIR-1 SOP's

1.1 Eligibility

The Air 1 Certification within the San Andreas State Troopers Air Support Unit is currently exclusively available to individuals holding the rank of Corporal or higher. While eligibility requirements may be subject to revision in the future, this qualification remains confined to the Corporal rank at the present time.

1.2 Mission Statement

1.2.1 Support for Ground Units

The primary goal of the San Andreas State Troopers Air Support Unit is to provide invaluable assistance and critical information to ground-based units. Our air support unit is dedicated to enhancing the overall effectiveness of the department by serving as the eyes in the sky during critical operations, pursuits, and emergencies. Our aircraft and personnel are strategically deployed to augment ground unit efforts and improve situational awareness for safer and more efficient law enforcement responses.

1.2.2 Aerial Pursuits and Patrol

In addition to supporting ground units, the Air Support Unit has a secondary mission to engage in aerial pursuits and patrols, leveraging our unique capabilities to apprehend and track suspects who attempt to evade ground units. Our aerial capabilities allow us to cover vast areas swiftly, monitor remote locations, and engage in pursuits that may be impractical for ground units alone. This mission is vital for maintaining public safety and ensuring the swift apprehension of individuals involved in criminal activities.

2.1 Conditions

The deployment of Air 1 is contingent upon the availability of at least three active police units in the field. For the purposes of this requirement, a "unit" is defined as a law enforcement vehicle, rather than an individual officer. This criterion ensures that the helicopter's deployment aligns with operational needs, maximizing its efficiency and effectiveness in supporting ground units.

2.2 Inclement Weather Policy

The helicopter shall not be deployed during severe thunderstorms or when extreme fog conditions prevail. Such weather conditions pose a significant risk to both individuals on board and those on the ground. It is the prerogative of the pilot to make real-time decisions regarding the continuation of a flight or the safe return to the base, taking into account any changes in weather conditions during the flight. The pilot's primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of all personnel and the public.

2.3 Crew Composition

To ensure the safe and efficient operation of the helicopter, each flight must be staffed with a minimum of one pilot and one co-pilot. The co-pilot is not required to hold a pilot's license or an Air 1 certification but is obligated to undergo basic Air 1 camera operator training as provided by the Pilot-in-Command. This dual-crew configuration facilitates comprehensive oversight of the aircraft's operation and enhances its mission capabilities.

2.4 Navigation Lighting

In accordance with Federal Aviation Administration regulations, the helicopter's navigational lighting and beacons must remain illuminated at all times when the aircraft is in use. This lighting ensures the visibility of the aircraft, contributing to the safety of flight operations.

2.5 Authorised Landing Sites

2.5.1 Designated Landing Sites

San Andreas State Troopers (SAST) helicopters are authorized to land exclusively at designated and marked helipads. These approved landing sites include but are not limited to Rockford Hills PD, Sandy Shores PD, Paleto Bay PD, Pillbox Medical, Los Santos International Airport, Sandy Shores Airfield, and others specified in departmental guidelines. The utilization of these pre-designated landing sites upholds safety and operational standards.

2.5.2 Emergency Extraction

In cases of necessity, Air 1 may temporarily touch down to extract or retrieve deputies or suspects from locations that would otherwise be inaccessible. This action requires prior approval from a member of the Supervisors rank or higher. Additionally, in instances where medical personnel are on board or their assistance is requested, Air 1 may operate and touch down on non-marked landing zones to facilitate rescues from challenging or critical patient locations. All such actions must prioritize safety and mission success.

2.5.3 Landing Zone Safety

During any landing or extraction operation, the utmost attention shall be given to safety, both in the air and on the ground. The pilot-in-command is responsible for ensuring a safe and secure landing or extraction operation, with the aim of minimizing risks to all personnel involved.

3.1 Operational Requirements

3.1.1 Altitude and Pre-Flight Checks

The helicopter unit must maintain an altitude of at least 500 feet above the surface, with the only exceptions being during landing and takeoff procedures. The Pilot-in-Command holds the responsibility of conducting a comprehensive pre-flight inspection to ensure the aircraft's airworthiness and safety.

3.1.2 Crew Capacity and Refueling

As required, the helicopter can accommodate a maximum of four crew members. Presently, the only two authorized refuelling locations for helicopters are Los Santos International Airport and Shank Street Heliport. Strict adherence to these refuelling sites is paramount.

3.2 Traffic Enforcement

One of the primary roles of helicopter operations is to engage in speed enforcement. The helicopter unit is capable of monitoring highways and other major roadways for traffic violations and relaying pertinent information to ground units for interception. During light traffic enforcement operations, the helicopter can remain airborne until availability requirements are no longer met. It is, however, essential to conduct refuelling every 20 to 30 minutes as a standard practice.

3.3 Pursuits

The helicopter serves as an invaluable asset when supporting troopers engaged in active pursuits. Upon request, the helicopter can attach to any ongoing pursuit. The helicopter unit can maintain attachment for a period of up to 20 minutes before necessitating a break for refuelling.

3.4 Raids & Covert Operations

Helicopters offer a tactical advantage during raids and covert operations. Despite their size and noise, they can maintain discreet monitoring of situations when positioned at a distance, utilizing onboard cameras and thermal imaging technology. The helicopter unit remains airborne until the operation concludes, providing invaluable support to troopers.

3.5 Major Crimes

The helicopter unit is deployable for major crimes such as bank robberies and Vangelico robberies, assisting in ensuing pursuits. Due to the demands placed on the helicopter during these high-priority situations, the unit must disengage after a maximum of 20 minutes for refuelling. However, the helicopter unit is authorized to reattach as necessary to fulfil its mission.

3.5.1 Paleto Bay Savings Bank

In the event of a Paleto Bay Savings Bank robbery, the helicopter unit is permitted to maintain airborne status for a maximum of 30 minutes before requiring refuelling. This extension in operation time is specifically granted for cases involving this location.