Helicopter (Air Support Unit)

Police forces in the North West are working together to deliver an improved air support service in our region with the introduction of the North West Air Operations Group (NWAOG).

Going live on July 18th 2011, the North West Air Operations Group is a new way of delivering air support across the region.

The five forces in the North West (Cheshire Constabulary, Greater Manchester Police, Lancashire Constabulary, Merseyside Police, and North Wales Police) have four helicopters, based at four different locations throughout the North West, providing a service anywhere in the region, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

With 24 hour cover, the collaboration will enable the five forces to cope better with demand, with efficient use of all four helicopters, whilst enabling forces to make further savings and maintain resilience across the region.

This is a move away from the concept of having one helicopter serving one region, to adopting the identity of one unit with support provided to all five forces. If an aircraft is needed in an area, for example, but the closest unit is already out on a job, then the regional control centre will contact one of the other units to ensure the nearest available aircraft is deployed to meet the needs in a quick and efficient manner.

We will be publishing details about why a helicopter may have been seen over your area online very soon.

We appreciate your support in relation to these changes and as a member of the public you will continue to receive the highest level of service from your Force.