To improve its overall aerial surveillance and crime-fighting operations, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office in California recently placed an order for a high-performance MD 530F helicopter from Mesa-based MD Helicopters Inc.

MD Helicopters Chief Commercial Officer Craig Kitchen spoke enthusiastically about the company’s long-term commercial relationship with the Fresno County department.

“We have proudly supported Fresno County’s operation of two MD 500E helicopters since the inception of the Air Unit nearly 20 years ago,” Kitchen said. “We are honored they have chosen to update their fleet with a new MD 530F. Not only is this aircraft a proven performer that is fun to fly, the MD 530F has the speed, durability, maneuverability and payload capability to support the ever-increasing rigors of a range of law enforcement missions.”

The two current helicopters employed by Fresno County have performed for a total of 30,000 flight hours in a cross-section of search and rescue missions, active pursuit and supportive surveillance.

“Cost of operation and increased capability were major factors in the decision to purchase this aircraft,” Fresno County Sheriff's Office Capt. Robert Kandarian said. “Our MD helicopters play an indispensable role in our ability to protect and serve the citizens of Fresno County. The increased performance and payload of the MD 530F, combined with the exponential reduction in our annual operation and maintenance costs, will increase both our effectiveness and efficiency in the execution of all law enforcement activities.”

MD Helicopters manufactures commercial, military, law enforcement and air-rescue helicopters in Arizona.