Report Summary
This report provides members of the Policing Performance Committee with an update on Police Scotland’s Air Support Unit use of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS).
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BACKGROUND
Police Scotland is committed to keeping our communities safe and having an accessible and agile air support service is an important asset in this endeavour. We are focussed on delivery and developing a sustainable model to support the future operations of our Air Support Unit.
Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) use allows us to be more flexible in our deployment of air support assets, offering a cost effective, low emission, and highly adaptable asset.
RPAS are authorised for use in both urban and rural environments, including areas near large gatherings such as football matches, music festivals, parades, and similar events. They are also capable of operating in the dark. They provide commanders with broader situational approaches and informed decision making. They are also an important tool in supporting others to trace vulnerable people.
All RPAS flights are conducted by two trained officers. The RPAS will always remain within the visual line of sight of the officers and will never be intentionally flown over uninvolved persons. Their capabilities are therefore less than a helicopter, including in terms of possible flying time.
RPAS complements our Police Helicopter and is essential component of Police Scotland’s blended air support models.
As aviation technology and legislation continue to evolve, we recognise the importance of keeping pace and developing our service. This is vital to ensuring that we continue to meet the needs of all local policing divisions and the communities we serve.
