Photo Courtesy NMSP

NMSP NEWS RELEASE

As flooding impacts communities across New Mexico, the New Mexico State Police (NMSP) Aircraft Unit has played a critical role in assisting residents in need, rescuing 10 people and 4 dogs since October 23, 2026.

Over the past week, the Aircraft Unit has conducted multiple aerial rescue operations in flood-impacted areas, including Farmington and Socorro. Eight of the rescues were completed using helicopter hoist operations, allowing personnel to safely reach individuals in locations that were otherwise difficult or impossible to access. In two additional rescues, ABLE 7 landed and safely recovered two individuals.

During flooding and other natural disasters, helicopters provide capabilities that are often unavailable to traditional ground-based emergency responders. Rising water, damaged roadways, washed-out bridges and isolated communities can prevent emergency personnel from reaching people in danger. Helicopters allow rescuers to access remote and hazardous locations, conduct aerial assessments and deploy specialized personnel to assist those who need immediate help.

The NMSP Aircraft Unit is an integral part of statewide law enforcement operations, providing aerial support, search and rescue capabilities, and assistance during emergency incidents. These recent operations demonstrate the importance of those capabilities during natural disasters and the dedication and specialized training of the personnel who operate these aircraft.

The New Mexico State Police remains committed to working alongside local, state and emergency response partners to protect lives and assist New Mexico communities during emergencies.