I assume they are not talking about using the factory built police role equipped r44?
It is a worthy low cost patrol and search machine, especially if you stick to 2 POB.
Sustained hovering over built-up areas is best done in a powerful twin, however LA PD use singles, because most of LA is low rise where one doesn't lose the suspect during an orbit and there are plenty of car parks and wide roads to land in a dire emergency.
A larger gimbal with more powerful lens would be desirable on the R44 police. Latest machines have HD cameras but still lack super long lenses.
Floats cant be fitted, to it or the R44 news variant, but good glide ability would enable safe flights along the coast at the appropriate altitude. ( I shot an around Ireland boat race in a R44 news)
In the years to come, improvements in camera performance of lightweight gimbals will overcome the current shortcomings.
It is feasible to operate a regular R44 with super long lens HD gimbal and floats.
Mickjoebill
Last edited by mickjoebill; 18th Aug 2011 at 20:53.