One of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office’s helicopters recently got a complete facelift.
The OH-58 Bell Jet Ranger, part of the sheriff’s office’s aviation unit stationed at Leesburg Regional Airport, is sporting a new “wrap” that completely changed the appearance of the law enforcement aircraft.
The helicopter, named Eagle 1, now displays a more modern look than the traditional design carried by the sheriff’s office’s helicopters in the past. And it still prominently features the gold and green colors associated with the law enforcement agency.
The OH-58 helicopter is one of three purchased by the sheriff’s office through the Army Surplus Re-utilization Program, the agency’s website says, adding that each helicopter was delivered in airworthy condition with histories of excellent maintenance. If purchased new, the helicopter would have cost about $900,000, the website adds.
Obtaining the helicopters through the military also qualified the sheriff’s office for a government program that allows the agency to purchase new aircraft parts and fuel at a considerable discount.
Sheriff’s helicopter crews make use of forward-looking infrared cameras, night vision goggles and a 30-million candle-power searchlight. They operate on a “ready” basis 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Typical calls for service include overdue boaters, missing Alzheimer’s patients, late or lost hikers, warrants and additional flights to help maintain the safety of residents and visitors, the website says.
Each pilot is required to obtain a Federal Aviation Administration commercial pilot license at their own expense on off-duty time before being considered for a full-time flying position. Flight observers complete an in-house training program that includes aircraft safety, radio communications and aircraft ground handling. And they complete extensive training on the use of the infrared camera system.
