About 50 La Posada residents got a close look at the Department of Public Safety’s new Bell 429 helicopter May 17, 2023. The copter costs about $10.5 million fully outfitted and came online in January. DPS Air Rescue Pilot Michael Overleas and Air Rescue Medic Justin Bowles explained the value of the copter, which has a second engine and additional hoist capabilities. The copter can fly from Tucson to Phoenix in about 50 minutes. The DPS copter landed in La Posada’s recreation center parking lot. The 429 is used in highway patrols, rescues, investigations, fire prevention and supports federal, state and local law enforcement efforts, among other roles.Â