Washington State Patrol launches aerial patrols in Southwest Washington

The Washington State Patrol (WSP) is teaming up with troopers in the air this week to bring Target Zero aerial patrols to Southwest Washington.

“The WSP’s Aviation Section is a force multiplier,” the state patrol stated in a news release.

WSP is using the aerial to support the statewide Target Zero initiative. Target Zero aims to reduce serious injury and fatality crashes on state roadways by 2030.

The aerial patrols support that mission by putting troopers in the air and on the ground to combat dangerous driving behaviors, the state patrol stated.

Troopers will fly night missions, utilizing the aerial vantage point to detect and report traffic violations.

The airplanes are equipped with forward looking infrared cameras and are crewed by two troopers.

The patrols are specifically focused on identifying aggressive and reckless drivers. The patrols can also identify impaired drivers.

“As we approach the final days of summer, the WSP wants to remind motorists it only takes a few minutes to make a responsible decision that may prevent a tragedy that will result in life-lasting impacts,” the state patrol stated. “Reduce your speeds, increase following distance, don’t drive impaired and always buckle up.”

Additional patrols from the WSP will be conducted in Lewis, Cowlitz, Clark and Skamania counties and will continue through Sunday, Aug. 18.

Troopers will focus on dangerous driving behaviors, including speeding, racing and impaired driving.