Starting Up: Launch

Peoria, Arizona, launched a new public safety aviation unit to support police patrol, fire department operations and rescue missions.

The unit was created from a vision for an aviation resource that could support both the police and fire departments with patrol operations, rescues and life-saving missions. The Bell 505 was selected as the right aircraft for the city.

The aircraft supports patrol operations and can help officers catch suspects and prevent additional victims. It also provides capabilities for fire rescue, including mission equipment, avionics, a cargo hook system and doors on both sides of the helicopter so a rescue basket can be moved from either side.

The unit was built and launched in approximately 15 months. That timeline required close partnerships between Peoria and Bell. The city described Bell as more than a supplier-it became a partner throughout the planning, training, equipment and delivery process.

Peoria worked with Bell to determine what the aircraft could do, what mission equipment was needed and how the helicopter could be configured for the unit's requirements. The process included planning for patrol support, fire department support and future mission needs.

The relationship continued after delivery. When maintenance questions or other issues arose, Peoria could contact Bell directly for advice, support or training. Bell representatives could troubleshoot problems by phone or visit the customer in person.

The Peoria team emphasized that Bell stood by its commitments. From procurement through delivery, everything arrived on time and according to what the city requested.