Thuringian Police Helicopters Respond to Increased Number of Incidents in 2023
The Thuringian Police have reported a slight increase in the number of missions flown by their helicopter unit in 2023, compared to the previous years 2021 and 2022. Although specific comparative figures were not provided, the Landespolizeidirektion (State Police Headquarters) has released some insights into the nature and scope of these missions.
Search and Rescue Operations Dominate
A significant portion of the helicopter missions (325) involved search and rescue operations for both missing persons and objects. These included tracking down escaped criminals, locating lost individuals, and searching for stolen vehicles. Such operations required the helicopters to remain airborne for over 240 hours.
Helicopters Assist in Diverse Situations
While primarily tasked with search and rescue, the police helicopters also played a role in other operational areas. Notably, they provided aerial surveillance and support during public demonstrations, albeit to a lesser extent.
Additionally, the helicopters proved invaluable in firefighting efforts, particularly when wildfires threatened densely vegetated areas. However, their availability and effectiveness in this role were contingent on weather conditions.
Hubschrauberstaffel: Capabilities and Personnel
The two helicopters of the Hubschrauberstaffel (Helicopter Squadron) are based at the Erfurt-Weimar Airport. They are operated by a team of 23 sworn officers who possess specialized equipment and training.
These include:
- Searchlight for nighttime operations
- Daytime and thermal imaging cameras for detecting heat sources
- Abseiling equipment for rescuing individuals from difficult-to-reach locations
Rigorous Selection and Training
Joining the Hubschrauberstaffel requires aspiring candidates to have completed their police training in either the middle or higher service. Successful applicants undergo rigorous selection procedures followed by specialized training programs.
Prospective pilots and flight engineers attend the Gemeinsame Luftfahrerschule für den Polizeiflugdienst (Joint Aviation School for Police Air Operations) in North Rhine-Westphalia. This training is supplemented by additional courses to enhance their operational capabilities.
Conclusion
The Thuringian Police Helicopter Squadron continues to play a vital role in safeguarding the safety and well-being of the community. By providing aerial reconnaissance, search and rescue operations, as well as support in diverse situations, they contribute significantly to the effectiveness of the police force. The unit’s highly trained personnel and advanced equipment enable them to respond swiftly and efficiently to a wide range of incidents, ensuring a more secure and protected environment for all.
