In addition to the Sacramento Police Department, the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office also maintains a distinct and integral aviation unit, known as the Air Operations Bureau. This bureau, based out of Mather Airport, operates a fleet of aircraft, including Airbus EC120Bs, to provide aerial support for officers and divisions, particularly in unincorporated areas of the county. The Sheriff's aviation unit is responsible for various missions, including routine patrol, homeland defense, and locating missing persons, and their aircraft are outfitted with specialized equipment like thermal imaging systems, powerful searchlights, and public address systems to enhance their operational effectiveness.