Here’s What It’s Like to Fly With a State Patrol

Washington troopers protect and serve from the air.

Meg Godlewski

Monday, June 16, 2025 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

Routine patrols for Washington state troopers are around three to five hours at an altitude of approximately 1,500 feet msl. [Courtesy: Meg Godlewski]

Key Takeaways:

Washington State Patrol (WSP) pilots support ground troopers in law enforcement, traffic patrol, and crime deterrence, utilizing aircraft equipped with tools like FLIR cameras and LoJack systems to locate stolen vehicles and identify dangerous driving.
The path to becoming a WSP pilot requires first serving as a state trooper on the ground, emphasizing law enforcement experience as foundational, alongside strong aviation qualifications such as a commercial pilot certificate and instrument rating.
WSP aerial missions are a team effort between a pilot (responsible for flight operations) and a Tactical Flight Officer (TFO), who operates specialized equipment, communicates with ground units, and provides probable cause, highlighting the importance of understanding ground procedures for effective coordination.

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Most pilots will tell you they enjoy their jobs. This is particularly true when the work involves making a positive difference in the community. Flying for state patrol is one of these flying jobs. These flying law enforcement officers pilot helicopters and airplanes in support of troopers on the ground.

But you don’t just walk off the street and get hired. For most flying LEOs, their career in the air division begins on the street as a state trooper.