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The Hangar Z PodcastAuthor: Jon Gray
A podcast where we explore the personnel and equipment behind the missions in Public Safety Aviation. Language: en-us Genres: Aviation, Health & Fitness, Leisure, Mental Health Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Episode 346 - John Nielsen: Transforming Law Enforcement Aviation Part 2
Episode 346
Wednesday, 15 April, 2026
Welcome back to the Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Valor Plus.Today’s episode features a true pioneer in airborne law enforcement—retired California Highway Patrol (CHP) pilot John Nielson. With more than 11,000 hours as pilot in command and another 3,400 hours as a second-in-command, John’s career is a masterclass in dedication, innovation, and mission-driven flying.We start at the beginning of his journey on the ground, patrolling out of the Malibu Station along one of the most dangerous stretches of road in California—the Pacific Coast Highway. From there, John takes us through his transition into the air support unit, first as a tactical flight officer and eventually as a fixed-wing pilot.But what truly sets this conversation apart is John’s relentless 15-year effort to bring FLIR technology into CHP’s fixed-wing program. That vision ultimately became reality with the integration of the MX-15 system into a Cessna 206—and the results in the very first year were nothing short of remarkable.John also shares the story of his final flight before retirement—a mission that perfectly captures the impact of that technology, ending with a successful FLIR-assisted find.Now, as the CEO and founder of AirMax Patrol, John continues to shape the future of airborne law enforcement by delivering cost-effective, proven solutions for air support units across the country.We also dive into the capabilities of the Diamond DA62 and why it may be one of the best-kept secrets for law enforcement aviation.This is a conversation about persistence, innovation, and leaving a legacy that continues to save lives.Settle in—this is an episode you don’t want to miss.Thank you to our sponsors Robinson Helicopter, Rotorcraft Support and Technisonic Industries.
