Writer

Charlotte Bailey

Louisiana-based Metro Aviation has delivered a modified Airbus H125 to the Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS) Aircraft Operations Division. The helicopter, which incorporates many mission-enhancing features, was specially customized by Metro Aviation and Austin-based engineering firm Tejas Advanced Solutions.
The new H125 will be the first of its type to serve with TXDPS, which currently operates a fleet of 15 Airbus helicopters and nine fixed-wing assets. However, Metro Aviation stated that this aircraft “marks a historic first in the public safety aviation sector as the premier H125 to feature a permanently mounted and hardwired Starlink antenna.”
This connectivity system will operate with an onboard Teradek system that Metro Aviation says can “maintain continuous data resiliency in even the most remote, austere environments.” During flight testing, the network logged an average signal quality of 98%, using both cellular networks and satellite communication.
Airframe additions include a custom hoist control panel with a specialized grab handle, additional external lighting, and an Axnes Wireless Intercom System. Metro Aviation has also marked its first installation of a forward-facing camera into the tail boom tip cap, paired with an aft-facing camera mounted beneath the boom.
These modifications will help the H125 in its role supporting law enforcement operations, search-and-rescue missions, and critical response efforts across Texas.

Texas Department of Public Safety Receives Customized H125

Aircraft first in public safety aviation sector to feature hardwired Starlink antenna

Louisiana-based Metro Aviation has delivered a specially modified Airbus H125 to the Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS) Aircraft Operation Division. 

Customized H125 for Texas Department of Public Safety 

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Hanneke Weitering

News and developments about airplanes, helicopters and unmanned air vehicles used in all varieties of operations, including airlines, military, business, commercial, general aviation and private.

News about bills, laws, regulations and other governmental decisions affecting aviation and aerospace. Topics include FAA re-authorizations, taxes on fuel and aviation activities, environmental legislation, ICAO decisions, governmental mediation of labor conflicts and World Trade Organization disputes and decisions.

Paramedic pilot reached one patient 20 minutes before the ambulance

Ultralight eVTOL Joins 911 Response in Rural N.C.

Essential news and analysis on the defense aerospace business. Your trusted source for new and ongoing programs and requirements in military aircraft (manned and unmanned), engines, avionics, weapons and associated systems, including ground-based air defense.

NATO’s newest member preparing to rearm fighters in less than 10 minutes

Sweden Eyes Expedited Gripen Fighter Turnaround Times 

Amy Wilder

News and issues relating to business, corporate and private aviation, primarily regarding turbine-engine-powered airplanes and helicopters. Subjects include aircraft, engines, maintenance, operations, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security, and training.

Europe posts first yearly decline in 14 months, North America powers increase

Argus: July Global Bizav Flying Activity Climbs 5.6%

Unification builds on TLC’s December acquisition of Privaira

Privaira Private Aviation Rebrands, Unites with TLC Jet

News and issues about aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), covering all segments of the aviation industry; and modifications for aircraft and engines. Subjects include product support of aircraft, engines and avionics, MRO company mergers, acquisitions, announcements and personnel, Airworthiness Directives, Supplemental Type Certificate approvals and other topics.

Modified military airlifter rushed in to help contain wildfires

France Deploys First Firefighting A400M Aircraft

Crew flew 6,300 miles to retrieve her in January

Air Ambulance Crew Reunites with Toddler They Rescued

Kerry Lynch

Argus forecast business aviation operations in second half to be up in all months but September

Fractional Growth To Continue, while Charter Gains in 2H

Charles Alcock

New developments at FBOs including regulations and noise issues; legal disputes; openings, acquisitions and mergers.

In this article

AS350/H125

Airbus Helicopters

More In Operations