A new faster and quieter helicopter has been added to the South Australian Police aerial fleet, delivering a boost in operational capacity.
The new twin-engine SAPOL Airbus H145 D3 will replace the existing SAPOL helicopter, which is more than 30 years old.
The state’s first five-blade aerial asset – part of a $150 million State Government commitment to bolster emergency helicopter services – is lighter, more fuel efficient and will be solely dedicated to police to rapidly respond to incidents.
“This modern addition enhances our operational capabilities and ensures a safer South Australia for all residents,” said SA Commissioner of Police, Grant Stevens.
The H145 is the quietest helicopter in its class and uses an enclosed rear rotor to significantly reduce noise. It is equipped with the latest technology to tackle crime while minimising disruption to those living and working in urban areas.
Training for the new helicopter will be carried out over the coming weeks, with the existing aircraft to continue flying until the training period is completed.
The SAPOL helicopter is deployed for operations including search and rescue missions on-land and at sea, airborne law enforcement and supporting road safety.
The new addition will join the State Rescue Helicopter Service (SRHS), a 24/7 service shared between SAPOL and SA Ambulance Service (SAAS) to provide critical emergency response across the state.
The Government has extended its SRHS contract with current provider, Babcock Australasia, for a further four years, as well as investing in an additional helicopter for SAAS.
SAAS will welcome the additional Bell 412 EP for medical operations by the end of 2024 as part of the $150 million commitment, which includes four new dedicated pilots to deliver a third line of flying – enabling three helicopters to be airborne at once.
New engineering resources and replacement of outdated equipment also forms part of the investment. Each year on average, the SRHS aircraft fly a combined 1,300 missions and more than 2,000 flying hours.
The Government is supporting SA Police with the latest equipment to tackle crime and keep the community safe,” said Minister Dan Cregan.
“This state-of-the-art technology will help achieve a new standard in aerial law enforcement.
“Increasing officers’ ability to respond quickly – with reduced noise for residents below – is an important part of the boost to our emergency helicopter service,” he said.
