To fly and protect: contextualizing the work of police helicopter units via observational methods

Purpose Helicopter units operate within many large police agencies in North America. Little research, however, has studied the practices of police helicopter units. As part of the present research, I empirically explore the operational realities of helicopter units using observational methods. Design/methodology/approach In order to collect my data, I participated in 39 ride-alongs with helicopter units from two different police agencies in the USA. During my ride-alongs, I employed observational methods to systematically collect data about the activities of helicopter units. I then analyzed my data to assess how helicopter units assist with calls for service, engage with ground-level officers and embed themselves in investigational procedures. Findings My analyses reveal rich insight into the mechanisms that connect the work of helicopter units in the sky to the work of police officers on the ground. Helicopter units provide reactive, proactive and in-progress assistance to ground-level officers via direct and indirect activities using a combination of technology, observation and manual techniques. Originality/value This field study systematically observes policing from inside the cockpit of a helicopter. I discuss the findings of my study and their implications with respect to both research and practice. I also use my findings to highlight the value of observational methods for studying policing questions more broadly.