Hawaii's Maui Police Department has held a blessing ceremony at the Central Maui Regional Sports Complex to officially welcome its new multi-mission helicopter, Hekili, meaning ‘thunder’ in Hawaiian. The name reflects the department's strength, resolve and commitment to public safety across Maui County.

The event brought together police personnel, county officials and community partners to celebrate the arrival of this long-awaited asset, which significantly enhances the MPD's emergency response capabilities.

“On 8 August 2023 the Hawaii wildfires occurred, and in the aftermath and the multiple after-actions, it was very clear that we in Maui County had to expand and enhance our air unit capabilities,” says Chief John Pelletier. “We at MPD went back to the drawing board to build on this concept, and today we have the most competent, capable, complete air unit in the state of Hawaii for first responders.”

Previously, MPD relied on the Maui Fire Department's AIR 1, which is often committed to fire suppression and not always available for police use. MFD's After Action Report also cited the critical need for additional air assets, noting that a dual-aircraft response could double initial firefighting capacity from 250 to 500 gallons.

Hekili, a BK117 helicopter, is not only tailored for law enforcement use but also serves as a shared public safety asset with MFD. Key capabilities include: twin engines – with enhanced power and safety redundancy it can continue flight on one engine if necessary; rescue hoist and human external cargo certified – enables faster, safer rescues and reduces exposure during critical missions; seating for up to 10 personnel – supports rapid transport of specialised teams to remote areas; firefighting ready – equipped with a 250-gallon water bucket for initial attack and wildfire support; Trakka system suite – features a high-intensity searchlight, infrared-capable camera and a mission mapping system with real-time video integration; and night operations capable: NVG-equipped with Garmin 500H and synthetic vision to enhance safety and situational awareness after dark.

The readiness and success of Hekili would not have been possible without the MPD's outstanding partnership with Hawaiian helicopter operator Windward Aviation, whose technical expertise and ongoing support have been instrumental in configuring and maintaining this advanced aircraft to meet the dynamic demands of public safety in Maui County.

“With Hekili, we're no longer limited to call-when-needed support,” Chief Pelletier adds. “This airship gives us the flexibility, speed and safety to serve our community better, whenever and wherever we're needed.”