New Technology for Pasadena Air Operations

Pasadena Air Operations (Photo- Susana Porras)

Although there is no visual evidence remaining of Pasadena’s pioneering aviation history, it doesn’t diminish its significance.

By Susana Porras

• Cal Rodgers completed the first transcontinental flight in 1911, landing the Wright EX biplane in present-day Tournament Park (currently maintained by Caltech).
• Amelia Earhart flew over Pasadena’s Sierra Airdrome Airport in the air rodeo in 1921.
• Pasadena’s proud aviation tradition continues today at Pasadena’s Police Department Benedict Heliport, where five Air Operations Section helicopters are housed and maintained.

Air Operations (Air Ops) provides critical aerial patrol response for the City of Pasadena and neighboring cities through the Foothill Air Support Team (FAST). FAST serves a total of 11 cities from Pomona to Pasadena, and there is an agreement to share resources with Glendale and Burbank. Air Ops is critical when responding to calls for service, especially when looking for lost children, hikers, and suspects. For ground units with limited visibility, air units are an invaluable tool. Moreover, Air Operations supports several City departments, including the Pasadena Fire Department with brush surveys and fire management as well as Public Works, Code Compliance, Planning Division, and the City Attorney’s Office. Keeping up with the various requests and ever-evolving needs of the City, not only requires regular maintenance, but also technological upgrades.

On Monday, May 6, 2024, the Pasadena City Council approved a recommendation from the Public Safety Committee for the purchase and installation of three Trakkabeam TL360 Searchlights and Gimbals for the Foothill Air Support Team at the cost of $383,685. The new technology will replace dated incandescent lighting.  The new hardware works on cue, draws less current, and the equipment’s lighter weight decreases drag and increases the aircraft’s performance. The new technology will reduce the amount of time the aircraft is in the air, saving energy and fuel, while reducing of light and noise pollution.

The Pasadena Police Department created a Helicopter Section in 1969. Since then, the department has established itself as a leader in the law enforcement and the aviation community. The Pasadena’s Air Ops Team and fleet are available to meet throughout the year at open house events, recruitment fairs, and expos. To keep up with the latest information, you may follow the Pasadena Police Department @PasadenaPD.

Benedict Heliport (Photo – Susana Porras)