Pasadena police to host air operations section open house Saturday

ALTADENA -- The public is invited to meet the high-flying machines and officers of the Pasadena Police Department's Air Operations Section Saturday at an open house.

The event is planned for 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Benedict Heliport, 2175 Yucca Lane in Altadena, Pasadena police Lt. Michael Ingram said.

The free open house will include demonstrations and displays by police helicopters, motorcycles, an armored vehicle and a mobile command post, officials said. Food and drink will also be provided.

SWAT team and K-9 demonstrations will be held at 12 p.m. and 1 p.m.

"We are excited to open our doors and increase the public's awareness and education about airborne law enforcement," Pasadena Police Chief Phillip Sanchez said. "The Air Operations Section has a proud history of crime fighting and providing public safety services. We want the public to know what we do and why air support and the special operations community is so critical to our mission in today's world."

To reach the heliport, take the Arroyo Boulevard/Windsor Avenue exit of the 210 Freeway and head north on Arroyo Boulevard, then make a left on Weimar Avenue to Yucca Lane.