Vertical 911 ALEA 2008

This first-ever issue of Vertical 911 is packed full of both exciting and informative stories for everyone who works in or supports air medical, fire or law enforcement helicopter operations. And, since this issue of Vertical 911 has bonus distribution at ALEA 2008, we’ve also added a very strong law enforcement focus.

Among our law-enforcement-related stories is Jason Colquhoun’s profile on the diverse airborne operations of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office. To better understand how to equip your helicopter, Kevin Nelson examines the world of law enforcement completions. Meanwhile, Jack Schonely teaches us how to catch suspects using FLIR technology.

Our collection of avionics and NVG articles feature Gary Watson’s report on EVS and SVS products, and Jen Boyer’s review of the amazing new Augmented Reality System. Also, Brent Bergan shows us how NVGs are helping first-responder units achieve safer operations. (Check out our brand new Web Exclusives™ feature to see Brent’s video article on NVGs).

Also in this premiere issue, Tony Morris reports from Southern California on how fire agencies there are preparing for a larger and longer season. Meanwhile, Shawn Coyle visits with the design team of Urban Aeronautics to discover how close the X-Hawk concept is to reality. And, in his regular Torque Talk feature, Shawn shares his experience and insights on transient limits.

If all that isn’t enough, Guy Maher presents a first-hand evaluation of the old standard in first-responder helicopter operations — the Bell 412. Then, Dan Megna closes out the first issue of Vertical 911 with In the Line of Duty, a regular feature honoring the protective and lifesaving work of those in the parapublic field, with scintillating first-hand accounts of their rescues and captures.