Air Support Unit (ASU) | Peel Regional Police

The Air Support Unit helps keep our communities safe by providing officers with a better view of incidents as they unfold. Using helicopters, drones, and emerging Drone as First Responder (DFR) technology, the unit supports emergency response, investigations, search efforts, and public safety operations.

By providing information from the air, these tools can help officers respond more quickly, make informed decisions, and improve safety for everyone involved.

Helicopter Operations (Air3)

Our helicopter supports frontline officers during emergencies, searches, and major investigations. It can cover large areas quickly, help locate people, monitor developing situations, and provide real-time information to officers on the ground.

Drone Program

Drones are another tool that helps officers safely gather information and assess situations from the air. They can often be deployed quickly and provide views that may not be available from the ground.

Drones may be used for

Missing person searches
Search and rescue operations
Collision investigations
Evidence collection
Emergency incidents
High-risk situations

Using drones can help officers better understand a scene, improve planning, and reduce risks during complex incidents.

Helicopter vs. Drone

Helicopters and drones each play an important role. The right tool depends on the situation.

Helicopter

Covers large areas
Stays in the air for longer periods
Supports major incidents and searches

Drone

Can be deployed quickly
Provides detailed views of a specific area
Supports targeted operations and investigations

Drone as First Responder (DFR)

Peel Regional Police is exploring Drone as First Responder (DFR) technology through a pilot project.

Drone as First Responder (DFR) Pilot

DFR allows a drone to be remotely deployed to certain calls for service and provide officers with real-time information before they arrive. This information can help officers better understand a situation and prepare their response.

Learn more about the Pilot

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Air Support Unit do?

The Air Support Unit supports officers from the air during emergencies, investigations, searches, and other public safety incidents.

When are drones used?

Drones are used when they can help officers safely gather information, locate people, assess incidents, or support investigations.

Is this a surveillance program?

No. Drones are used for specific public safety purposes and are not used to routinely monitor people or neighbourhoods.

How is privacy protected?

All drone operations must follow applicable laws, regulations, and police policies. Access to recordings is restricted to authorized personnel.