Council funds simulator training for police pilots despite one dissenting vote

The Phoenix City Council on Feb. 18 approved funding to pay for simulator training for the police air support unit’s Pilatus PC‑12 pilots, with the training provided by an external vendor. The council approved the funding 8–1 after sustained discussion about uses of aerial assets and cost tradeoffs with unmanned systems.

Chief Lee and Commander Reagan described simulator training as a national best practice that offers a safe, cost‑effective way to practice emergency, transport and surveillance scenarios. "The ability for us to utilize continued simulator training provides a cost effective, safe environment for our folks to be able to learn the skill sets required to operate these million dollar pieces of equipment," a department representative said. Commander Reagan emphasized the air support unit’s roles in surveillance of violent offenders, transport missions and evidence protection.

Councilwoman Hernandez voted no, questioning ongoing expansion of aerial surveillance capacity amid other city priorities including housing, heat resilience and behavioral health. "We are being asked to normalize and find Phoenix Police Department behavior that should give us pause," she said, arguing for focusing resources on ground‑level prevention and services.

Department staff clarified the contract request covers training only, not the purchase of simulators or aircraft, and the training is specific to the Pilatus PC‑12 platform. The council asked for additional cost breakdowns and an analysis comparing piloted aircraft costs to drone (UAS) capabilities; the department committed to follow up with a cost and usage breakdown for the air support unit.

What happens next: Funds will be used to schedule simulator sessions for pilots; staff will provide requested cost breakdowns to council offices.

— Reporting from Phoenix City Council proceedings.