The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Aviation Unit is a unique group of local professional Aviators who serve on a volunteer basis 24/7.  Unit functions include Criminal Apprehension, Drug Eradication County Patrol, Search and Rescue, Assistance to the U.S. Coast Guard on the Mississippi River, assistance to Federal Agencies such as the FAA, FBI, Secret Service, DEA, as well as Police, Fire and Emergency Departments in the County as well as adjacent counties.

Pilots hold ratings up to ATP and IA Mechanic ratings.  All aircraft are FAA Certificated and are operated under Part 91 of the FAR’s.  The Unit operates the Hughes OH-6A Cayuse helicopters known as the LOACH.  They are jet-turbine aircraft and can fly up to 140 MPH and can carry up to a 4 personnel including the pilot.  2008 marks the 25^th year of this professional service.