Mesa, Ariz., November 1, 2018 – MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI) celebrates the delivery of a new MD 530F helicopter to the Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD). As the first MD Helicoptersbrand aircraft to join the VBPD Aviation Unit since the Helicopter Operations unit was established, the new MD 530F will be a powerful, reliable addition to their fleet, and will deliver improved operational efficiency and increased mission versatility.
“This aircraft, like all of our law enforcement builds, has been a labor of love; a testament to our commitment to serve those who live their lives in service of others,” said Lynn Tilton, Chief Executive Officer for MD Helicopters, Inc. “We are excited to see this elegant MD 530F begin its service with the Virginia Beach Police Department.”
The Virginia Beach Police Department operates 20 hours a day, 7 days a week, in service of the 450,000 citizens that inhabit the city’s 310 square miles. Two-person flight crews support ground officers in the execution of air patrol, search and rescue, surveillance, and crime scene and damage assessment.
“The Aviation Unit plays an invaluable role in our ability to protect and serve the citizens and visitors of Virginia Beach,” said Reginald Padgett, Virginia Beach Police Department. “As an effective command platform during critical situations like vehicle and suspect pursuits or missing person operations, the Helicopter Unit provides optimal situational awareness that protects both officers and civilians on the ground.”
