Aircraft The Victim Of Budget Cuts, May Be Reinstated

The San Jose, CA police department has idled its helicopter in an effort to save $1.4 million from the department's annual budget, but the grounding may not be permanent.

Flights have been suspended for at least three months in an effort to determine the cost savings. The department flies an average of three missions per day, and the cost of the aircraft is made up mostly of pilot salaries and maintenance on the helicopter.

The San Jose mercury News reports that there is still a fixed-wing airplane in use by the department on an as-needed basis. The department's four pilots have reportedly be re-assigned to patrol duties.

However, the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office says it will continue to fly its helicopter at least three times a week. The Sheriff's Office uses contract pilots rather than sworn officers, which reduces the operation costs of the aircraft. The sheriff's office says its $329,000 annual operating costs for the helo is largely supported by money seized from criminals.

The San Jose police department says it will still use it's helicopter for emergencies, and in support of major events in the city.

FMI: www.sjpd.org, www.sccgov.org/portal/site/sheriff