Spokane: SPD Air Support Unit Continues to be a Vital Tool for the Department

~ Spokane Police Department Implements Full-Time Drone Team for Enhanced Public Safety

In 2018, the Spokane Police Department (SPD) took a step towards modernization by implementing a new program to assist in its day-to-day functions. With the advancements in drone technology, SPD created the Air Support Unit (ASU) to provide aerial support for officers on the ground. Due to the success of ASU, SPD has now established a full-time drone team in September of 2025.

The team, consisting of 8 pilots, works alongside patrol teams during peak hours and is staffed daily. Four of these pilots work as full-time drone operators while the other four work in a patrol capacity. This strategic move has proven to be highly effective in enhancing public safety and improving efficiency for the Spokane community.

Since its inception, ASU has responded to multiple calls for service each day and provided overwatch on high-risk calls for officers, helping mitigate officer safety risks. In 2025 alone, ASU responded to an impressive 1,593 calls for service. Additionally, since becoming a full-time unit in September of 2025, ASU has assisted with locating subjects involved in criminal investigations on 128 separate occasions. They have also responded to 42 missing persons calls and successfully located individuals ranging from children to senior citizens suffering from dementia.

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Apart from assisting with regular police operations, ASU also plays a crucial role in special operations such as traffic control and large city-wide events. Their presence provides an added layer of safety for the community.

One of the major advantages of having a full-time drone team is that they are often among the first responders to calls for service. Since September of 2025, ASU has been first on scene for an impressive 733 calls for service. This has proved beneficial in locating suspects and making arrests on multiple occasions as drones can reach a location much faster than patrol officers navigating through traffic.

Moreover, ASU has also handled 479 calls without the need for a patrol response, showcasing their efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Drones are far less expensive to operate and maintain compared to traditional police helicopters, making them a valuable asset for SPD.

A recent video released by SPD highlights the value of ASU during an active burglary investigation. The drone operators were able to quickly locate suspects and recover critical evidence, including firearms. These incidents demonstrate how emerging technology can strengthen public safety while improving efficiency, accountability, and officer safety for the Spokane community.

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SPD remains committed to the ethical, transparent, and constitutional use of drones. The department has implemented policies, training, and oversight measures to ensure that drones are used in a responsible manner that protects both public safety and individual rights.

The implementation of a full-time drone team by SPD is a testament to their dedication towards enhancing public safety and utilizing resources effectively. With drones providing real-time aerial support at a fraction of the cost of traditional methods, it is clear that this move will greatly benefit the Spokane community in the years to come.

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