Queensland Police Service (QPS) is proudly celebrating a significant milestone in 2025, marking 50 years since the inception of aviation in Queensland policing.

Policing aviation in Queensland dates back to June 1975, when the QPS acquired its first two aircrafts – former Australian Army fixed-wing tailwheel aeroplanes that had previously served in Vietnam.

Just a few months later, on 13 October 1975, Senior Constable Bob Doneman piloted the inaugural flight of the Police Air Wing, officially launching the QPS aviation program.

Operating from a modest office on the top floor of the old Archerfield Airport terminal, the early Air Wing played a vital role in supporting policing efforts. The team carried out a range of critical missions including aerial patrols, transport duties along Quee

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