Customized H125 for Texas Department of Public Safety

Louisiana-based Metro Aviation has delivered a modified Airbus H125 to the Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS) Aircraft Operations Division. The helicopter, which incorporates many mission-enhancing features, was specially customized by Metro Aviation and Austin-based engineering firm Tejas Advanced Solutions.

The new H125 will be the first of its type to serve with TXDPS, which currently operates a fleet of 15 Airbus helicopters and nine fixed-wing assets. However, Metro Aviation stated that this aircraft “marks a historic first in the public safety aviation sector as the premier H125 to feature a permanently mounted and hardwired Starlink antenna.”

This connectivity system will operate with an onboard Teradek system that Metro Aviation says can “maintain continuous data resiliency in even the most remote, austere environments.” During flight testing, the network logged an average signal quality of 98%, using both cellular networks and satellite communication.

Airframe additions include a custom hoist control panel with a specialized grab handle, additional external lighting, and an Axnes Wireless Intercom System. Metro Aviation has also marked its first installation of a forward-facing camera into the tail boom tip cap, paired with an aft-facing camera mounted beneath the boom.

These modifications will help the H125 in its role supporting law enforcement operations, search-and-rescue missions, and critical response efforts across Texas.