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 provide airborne support for ground troopers in law enforcement, traffic patrol, and crime deterrence.
A unique requirement for WSP pilots is first serving as a state trooper on the ground, which ensures they understand and can effectively coordinate with ground operations.
Their missions are conducted using specialized aircraft, such as Cessna 206s equipped with FLIR cameras and LoJack systems to track stolen vehicles, with a pilot focused on flying and a Tactical Flight Officer (TFO) managing surveillance and ground communications.

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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.