Metro Aviation has officially completed and delivered a highly customised, mission-ready Airbus H125 to the Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS) Aircraft Operations Division.
The result of a tight architectural collaboration with Austin-based engineering firm Tejas Advanced Solutions, the aircraft marks a historic first in the public safety aviation sector as the premier H125 to feature a permanently mounted and hardwired Starlink antenna.
Operating in conjunction with an onboard Teradek system, this integration creates a powerhouse triple-bonded, bidirectional data connection utilising both cellular networks and satellite communication. Designed to maintain continuous data resiliency in even the most remote, austere environments, the network proved near flawless during rigorous flight testing, registering less than 0.5% obstruction and maintaining an average signal quality of 98%.
Shawn Bruton, Metro Aviation’s Part 145 Director of Maintenance, said: “Texas DPS is always on the cutting edge of aviation innovation and equipment. They consistently challenge our team to push the envelope, allowing us to deliver first-of-its-kind law enforcement configurations that set an entirely new standard for airborne law enforcement missions. Bringing in a partner like Tejas Advanced Solutions ensures our teams can all go that extra mile and deliver truly groundbreaking solutions.”
Beyond the breakthrough data network, Metro Aviation outfitted the H125 cabin and airframe with a highly specialised, custom suite of tactical and safety gear.
This includes:
- Integration of the state-of-the-art Shotover ARS-750 airborne mapping system alongside a 4th Generation Wescam MX-10 sensor and a high-output TL360 Trakka searchlight.
- A bespoke tactical layout featuring a custom hoist control panel, built-in Texas DPS cupholders, and a specialised “grab handle” at the LH sliding door to ensure maximum operator safety and stability during complex hoist profiles.
- Metro’s first installation of a forward-facing camera integrated into the tail boom tip cap, paired with an aft-facing camera mounted to the bottom of the boom.
- A state-of-the-art digital audio system from AEM, an Axnes Wireless Intercom System (ICS) for untethered crew communications, internal cabin camera, LifePort tail rotor illumination lights, and Whelen 600 Series position lights.
David Magocsi, Chief Technology Officer at Tejas Advanced Solutions, said: “TXDPS has a well-earned reputation for being at the forefront of technology adoption and continuously expanding their mission capabilities in order to better serve the people of Texas. It is truly an honor to support an agency with such a forward-looking vision. We’re equally proud of our partnership with Metro Aviation, whose expertise, professionalism, and commitment to excellence make it possible to deliver such innovative solutions.”
