NPAS fixed wing air support extended to all England and Wales

Image courtesy NPAS

Chair of the National Strategic Board, John Campion said: “Since January 2020, the aeroplanes have mainly served the North East region, from their base in Doncaster.  The aircraft will now be used to support operational policing, in conjunction with the helicopter fleet, across England and Wales.

“Following consideration of the fleet’s capability, endurance and cost, the Board determined that the aeroplanes offer increased value as a national asset.

“The excellent endurance of the aeroplanes makes them particularly suitable for policing large scale events, as well as being highly effective in conducting lengthy searches and carrying out prolonged vehicle pursuits.”

NPAS operates four aeroplanes from its base in Doncaster.

Crewed by a pilot plus one tactical flight officer, the aircraft are kitted out with the same mission equipment as police helicopters, with a specialist camera, mapping system, downlink transmitters and UK-wide radio communication.

Once in flight, they can remain airborne for around eight hours, covering a range of 800 miles.

Between January 2020 and December 2021, the aeroplanes were deployed 1,564 times.

The service is currently seeking to recruit two additional fixed wing pilots to join the Doncaster-based crews.

The National Strategic Board which governs NPAS comprises nine Chief Constables and nine Police and Crime Commissioners, each representing the regions of England and Wales.

NPAS was formed in 2012 as part of a national collaborative agreement and is funded by the police forces.

It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week and has a fleet of 19 helicopters operating from 15 bases plus the four aeroplanes.