Office of Air Operations

History

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) Air Operations Program has proudly served the people of California from above since the early 1960s, when the Department first introduced airplanes and helicopters to enhance traffic enforcement and public safety.  What began as a small contingent of aircraft dedicated to highway patrol has evolved into one of the largest and most capable law enforcement aviation programs in the nation.  Today, the Office of Air Operations oversees eight strategically located air units that provide comprehensive coverage across California’s 163,696 square miles.  The program operates a diverse fleet of airplanes and helicopter, each purpose-built for mission flexibility.  CHP’s airplanes conduct patrol missions, traffic enforcement, and rapid transportation across the state, while helicopters perform a wide range of search-and-rescue (SAR), emergency medical response, and law enforcement missions in both urban and remote environments.  With over 150 skilled pilots, paramedics, and flight officers, the Office of Air Operations continues to stand as a vital public safety resource dedicated to saving lives and supporting officers on the ground.

Mission

The OAO ensures Safety, Service, and Security across California's communities through strategic air resource deployment.

Program Highlights

• Aviation Safety Program. The OAO’s Aviation Safety Program operates under a Safety Management System (SMS), which prioritizes safety in every mission, role, and responsibility. The SMS establishes a proactive safety culture, empowering every team member to uphold the highest safety standards in daily operations.

• CHP Air Rescue, Paramedic, and Emergency Medical Technician Programs. The OAO is responsible for the management and administration of the CHP Air Rescue, Paramedic, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), and EMT-Paramedic (EMT-P) Programs as they relate to Emergency Medical Services (EMS) provided by the AOP. The CHP coordinates Advanced Life Support EMS, supporting and managing a standardized statewide EMS service in conjunction with the Air Rescue and Paramedic Programs and other designated paramedic and EMT assignments. 

• Pilot Testing Program. The OAO administers initial phase and recurrent training, as well as annual evaluation, of all departmental pilots and flight officers, ensuring professional excellence, procedural standardization, and mission readiness.

• Aircraft Maintenance and Inspection Program. All departmental aircraft (airframes, powerplants, and optional equipment) shall be maintained in accordance with applicable Federal Aviation Administration regulations, original equipment manufacturer’s maintenance requirements, and departmental requirements. The OAO also develops and coordinates aircraft maintenance contracts and procedures to ensure equipment readiness and reliability.

Fleet and Personnel

• Fleet: 14 helicopters and 16 airplanes strategically deployed statewide.
• Personnel: Over 150 trained pilots, flight officers, and paramedics within the program work tirelessly to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security to the people of California.
• With the centralization of the AOP, the OAO is the largest CHP command in the state.

Office of Air Operations Air Units

Contact Us

For inquiries or more information about the Office of Air Operations, please contact

(279) 224-6400.