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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — For the first time, Metro Nashville Police Department helicopter operations are now based in an airport setting rather than at the training academy grounds in the Tucker Road neighborhood of Bordeaux.
Chief John Drake, Mayor Freddie O’Connell and representatives of the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority cut the ribbon Wednesday on MNPD’s new Aviation Facility & Hangar at John C. Tune Airport.
The facility is nearly 22,000 square feet, including 10,000 square feet of hangar space and 12,000 square feet of office space for the department’s eight pilots, helicopter mechanics and tactical flight officers.
Police said the new space is a major upgrade from the department’s previous, more limited quarters.
The Aviation Unit plays a key role in public safety by helping reduce dangerous ground pursuits, as flight crews monitor fleeing vehicles from the air. In 2025, MNPD said its helicopters directly aided in the apprehension of 817 suspects.
Kelsey Gibbs brings us a powerful story of humanity, compassion, and love in action while showing us the hard and lifesaving work our officers do daily. Nashville is lucky to have people like Lt. Hotz wearing the badge.
- Carrie Sharp
