|
search operations aerial response
PALM BAY POLICE DEPARTMENT
S.O.A.R. UNIT
Click on photos to enlarge
The Palm Bay Police Department’s S.O.A.R. Unit provides aerial support for the agency utilizing two unconventional aircraft known as a powered parachute and powered paraglider trike. These aircraft provide aviation alternatives for agencies that can utilize air support but cannot afford the costs associated with traditional aircraft. The benefits to these aircraft are low acquisition costs, low operating costs, they are very portable requiring no hanger to store the units, they are easy to learn to operate, and safe to fly.
 With a geographical service area of over 100 square miles, these two aircraft provide the police department with aerial capabilities far below the operating costs associated with traditional aircraft. The “low and slow” method of operation with these air units provide the pilot/officer with an un-obscured aerial view of the City and of isolated areas not easily accessible by other means.
Time2Fly, LLC is a Florida company that provides Powered Paragliding flight training for both trike and foot launch aviation. Time2Fly principal Scott Adair is a USPPA certified instructor and also holds an FAA Sport Pilot and Repairman's certificate. Adair helped originate the S.O.A.R. program over three years ago, has trained multiple police personnel to be pilots, is a volunteer pilot with his own aircraft, and participates with the Agency in various search, recovery, and safety operations.
The PPC (powered parachute) currently being utilized by the S.O.A.R. Unit is a Powrachute Pegasus PPC.
^Top
| 
