Why is the helicopter based in Exeter?
Weather conditions are better in the Exeter area; it would be more difficult to fly from a location further west in the Force area. The Air Operations Unit is next to the motorway, which is convenient considering that crime frequently enters and exits the Force area via the motorway. There is a mutual aid scheme with Dorset and Avon & Somerset Constabularies; Air Operations in these forces cover one another in case of emergency. If the Force’s Air Operations Unit were based in Cornwall, for example, it would be too far west to assist these two forces. If the helicopter base were in Plymouth, it would need to stop more frequently to re-fuel each time it flew east for a job and then back west to Plymouth. The helicopter’s endurance is limited to just two hours’ flying. The helicopter has always been based in Exeter and it would be expensive for the Air Operations Unit to move location. Air Operations staff all live locally so it is a convenient location.
Related Questions
- Where is the helicopter based and does it have to work with other air traffic when airbourne or does it have priority over other aircraft?
- Where is the helicopter based and does it have to work with other air traffic when airbourne or does it have priority over other aircraft?
- Does the helicopter ever leave the Exeter area?
- Does the helicopter ever leave the Exeter area?
- Why is the helicopter based in Exeter?
- Where is the helicopter based?
