Low-Flying Police Chopper Sparks Stir in Merseyside
The National Police Air Service (NPAS) has responded after a video of a low-flying police helicopter during a high-speed chase in Merseyside went viral.
Chopper Chases Suspects Across Merseyside
The footage, shot on Wednesday 13 August, shows the police helicopter dangerously close to the ground amid a tense pursuit. The chase ended with the arrest of one man for multiple offences including:
- Dangerous driving
- Taking a vehicle without consent
- Driving while disqualified
- Failing to stop
- Driving without insurance
- Conspiring to cause a public nuisance
A second suspect was also arrested for theft of a motor vehicle and assisting an offender.
NPAS Defends Helicopter Crew’s Actions
“At around 2.30pm, our air crew was deployed to assist 1 after reports of a man riding a scrambler bike dangerously near Carr Mill Dam. The rider mounted pavements, sped through residential areas, and narrowly missed a pedestrian,” said NPAS Chief Operating Officer Chief Supt Fiona Gaffney.
“A second male later joined him on the bike and together they continued to evade police, travelling across roads and fields. Our crew tracked the motorcyclist for over an hour, providing continuous updates to ground officers.”
She added that the helicopter was preparing to land safely but had to abort when the suspects continued to flee. The aircraft then took off quickly in what was described as “an accepted take-off manoeuvre.”
Safety and Protocols Confirmed
After reviewing aircraft footage, radio logs, and operational decisions, NPAS confirmed the crew acted correctly and conducted a dynamic risk assessment, operating within all regulations.
“The fast-paced and unpredictable nature of vehicle pursuits can require crews to make rapid decisions to ensure public safety. We have robust procedures in place to support these decisions, and safety remains our highest priority,” said Chief Supt Gaffney.
NPAS assured it continues to work closely with the Civil Aviation Authority to uphold operational standards and thanked the public for their concern and engagement.
