Aircraft and pilot information dashboard
Fast facts about the State Patrol aircraft
Helicopters
Our helicopters have a daytime camera, an infrared camera, and a spotlight. They can send live video to a receiver, which can be securely streamed online. Our pilots use night vision goggles. They are trained in various rescue methods, including short-haul, rappel and close-quarter loading. They work with the Minnesota Air Rescue Team (MART) for search and rescue missions. The State Patrol Special Response Team uses similar skills for tactical operations.
The Bell 407’s Rolls-Royce turbine engine is capable of providing 813 shaft horsepower. However, it’s limited to 674 shaft horsepower for takeoff and 630 shaft horsepower for continuous operation. At full power, the engine’s compressor runs at 51,000 revolutions per minute (rpm), the main rotor blades spin at 413 rpm, and the tail rotor spins at 2500 rpm. It holds 146 gallons of fuel and uses about 48 gallons of jet A fuel per hour.
Airplanes
We use airplanes for traffic enforcement, and transporting law enforcement personnel and equipment.
The Cirrus SR22 has a daytime camera and an infrared camera, and can send live video. We use it for traffic enforcement, pursuit mitigation, search-and-find missions and monitoring important events.
Pilot training and certifications
State Patrol pilots are required to have a commercial FAA license for the aircraft they fly and a second-class airman's medical certification. Helicopter pilots are certified for vertical reference flying, while airplane pilots are instrument rated.