Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks

The FWP Aviation Bureau provides aircraft and flying services for transporting FWP personnel for wildlife surveys, research and aerial wildlife telemetry and wildlife darting and marking; law enforcement missions, conducting aerial mountain lake and river fish surveys and planting and personnel transportation. The unit coordinates FWP aviation contracting for private flying services; ensures required maintenance is accomplished on department aircraft, and that all flights are conducted in compliance with FAA, state, and FWP regulations and policy. The unit is responsible for ensuring the aircraft hangars are well kept and equipment is in good working order. The unit maintains pilot skills through scheduled periodic pilot training and conducts aircraft safety training for department personnel who utilize flying services. Helicopters and single engine fixed wing aircraft are operated by FWP pilots.