The Lower Mainland Traffic Safety Helicopter Program is the result of a partnership among the BC Government, the Insurance Corporation of BC (ICBC), RCMP and police departments in the Lower Mainland.

The two helicopters in the Program, called Air 1 and Air 2, are tasked to enhance and support the Lower Mainland police in their efforts to reduce injuries and deaths on our roadways as part of the National Road Safety Vision 2010. They 

• reduce police response time,
• provide an aerial perspective to ground units for perimeter containment and observation,
• enhance public and police officer safety during emergency responses to crimes in progress, police pursuit and search and rescue operations, and
• provide an effective crime reduction tool due to their patrol capabilities and “presence".

Air 1 started its operation in mid-2006 and has since been providing effective and safe supports to Lower Mainland police in tracking fleeing suspects, aggressive drivers and suspected car thieves. The addition of Air 2 in spring 2009 has further enhanced the program's capabilities and coverage.

Between May 2006 - July 2009, the Program

• assisted in recovering 179 stolen vehicles resulting in 263 people being arrested.
• terminated 78 vehicle pursuits resulting in 100 people being arrested.
   

Air 1 in action - Video  (text summary)