US Customs and Border Patrol: Air and Marine Operations
Aircraft Type
- Sikorsky S-76
- [Eurocopter AS-350] (https://www.cbp.gov/sites/default/files/documents/FS_2015_AS350%20A-Star_0.pdf)
FAA Registry Number
Trackable on Flightradar24 App?
- Sometimes - Website Link
Details
Numerous folks have helped me identify this helicopter as being a Sikorsky S-76 operated by the US Customs and Border Patrol. I used to think that perhaps it helped patrol the area and generally provide security and had many questions (Are they armed? What are they looking for? Where are they based out of?). But then one person observed something way simpler that sounds about right: “It’s the DHS Secretary’s transport. Also shared with the Commandant of the Coast Guard. In return, DHS secretary gets to ride in the Commandant’s Gulfstreams.”
Viewing Tips
I’ve only seen this helicopter over DC a few times, so I can’t speak very much to viewing tips yet.
Radio Callsign
Troy (formerly Omaha)
Photos
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Links
- Customs and Border Patrol in 2021 GAO Washington, D.C. Area Helicopter Noise Report
- Customs and Border Patrol: Fact Sheet
- Customs and Border Patrol: Air and Marine Operations Assets
- Feedback When This Was Listed As Unidentified