Drone Operations

The Blue Ash PD UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) team started its work in 2016 and has nine members – seven from the Police Department and two from the Fire Department.  Each member carries a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration.  The team operates four primary aircraft:  two DJI Matrice 30Ts, a DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual, and a DJI Mavic Mini.  Our members also form part of the Southwest Ohio Regional Public Safety Drone Team (UAS 500).

The team supports police and fire operations across the City and beyond.  It has flown well over 1000 flights in response to many incidents and planned events, including Red, White & Blue Ash, missing persons, fire scenes, homicide investigations, suspect searches, Cincinnati Riverfest, and general mapping requests.   In addition, the team provides aerial photography and videography services to all City departments, particularly Public Works.  The team has recorded hours of video as part of various studies in order to help improve the movement of traffic through the City.