Established in 1970, the Anaheim Police Department aviation service commenced operations with two Hughes 300 helicopters. These aircraft were designated with the call sign "Angel." Over the subsequent decades, the department's air support capabilities evolved, with the original helicopters being replaced by MD500s. The current fleet includes H125 (AStar) helicopters and a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan, all maintaining the original "Angel" call sign.
The primary function of this unit has consistently been to provide aerial assistance to ground units. This support encompasses various law enforcement and public safety tasks, such as traffic management, ground force aid, search and rescue operations, pursuit management, observation, routine air patrol, and oversight of large public gatherings. Technological advancements have led to the integration of high-definition and thermal imaging cameras, powerful spotlights, and public address systems into the current helicopters, enhancing their operational effectiveness across diverse conditions.
Oct 2, 2015 · Vector Aerospace signed a three-year contract with the Anaheim Police Department to provide maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) support for their AS350B2 helicopters components.