LAS VEGAS — Periodically, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) helicopters will circle neighborhoods at night as support for ground officers.
Residents in Las Vegas sometimes experience LVMPD helicopters circling neighborhoods at night. This happens when ground officers request overhead support during incidents where law enforcement is searching for suspects or missing persons. While the LVMPD does not directly notify residents during these incidents, residents can use social media or third-party apps as a source of information. The circling action helps keep the engine cool and allows officers to use spotlights or thermal cameras.
During Dec. 29 and Dec. 31, 2025, low-altitude helicopter flights with radiation sensing technology took flight to measure expected background radiation in preparation for the festivities.
The department operates a specialized fleet that includes Airbus H145, H125 helicopters, and three McDonald Douglas 530F aircraft to cover around 8,000 square miles, including popular spots like the Strip. Last year, the air support unit engaged in 127 suspect pursuits, 9,403 calls for service, recovered 438 stolen vehicles, and apprehended 2,197 suspects.
