Pasadena Police Host Annual Law Enforcement Fly-In at Rose Bowl

Twenty-four law enforcement helicopters gathered at the Rose Bowl on April 23 as the Pasadena Police Department hosted its 34th annual Law Enforcement Fly-In. The event brought together agencies from across California for disaster preparedness training, networking, and discussions on new technologies aimed at advancing the safe and effective use of aircraft in law enforcement operations.

Eugene Harris, Chief of Police, explained that Air Operations provides critical aerial patrol response for the City of Pasadena and neighboring cities through the Foothill Air Support Team. The Foothill Air Support Team serves a total of eleven cities from Pomona to Pasadena, and there is an agreement to share resources with Glendale and Burbank.

Twenty-four helicopters flew in from various agencies between San Diego and Ventura. The event was sponsored by twenty-five aviation vendors. Chino Police Department joined the training session as they prepare to unveil their new Air Operations Unit in December 2025.

The primary purpose of this annual exercise is disaster preparedness. The Rose Bowl could serve as a staging area for aircraft during a major emergency. The drill allows Air Operations personnel to practice safely facilitating multiple landings and identify potential equipment deficiencies.

This year’s training topic, contributed by the Los Angeles County Fire Air Unit, provided participants with guidance on how to operate in fire environments and the procedures needed when flying in smoke contaminated surroundings.

Air Operations is critical when responding to calls for service, especially when looking for lost children, hikers, and suspects. For ground units with limited visibility, air units are an invaluable tool.

Beyond law enforcement activities, Pasadena’s Air Operations Section supports several city departments. These include the Pasadena Fire Department with brush surveys and fire management, as well as Public Works, Code Compliance, Planning Division, and the City Attorney’s Office. Keeping up with the various requests and ever-evolving needs of the city not only requires regular maintenance but also technological upgrades.

Although no visual evidence remains of Pasadena’s pioneering aviation history, it does not diminish its significance. Pasadena’s proud aviation tradition continues today at Pasadena Police Department’s Benedict Heliport, where five Air Operations Section helicopters are housed and maintained.

For more information on Pasadena Police Department’s Air Operations Unit, please visit https://www.cityofpasadena.net/police/divisions-and-sections/air-operations/