Episode 179 - Aviation Excellence: Oxford PD's MD530F Success Part II

The Hangar Z Podcast

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Thank you to MD Helicopters for sponsoring this special in-person interview with Jake Durham and Drew Muench from the Oxford Police Department Aviation Unit.

The Oxford Police Department chose the MD Helicopters 530F model as its primary airborne mission platform due to its exceptional versatility and performance characteristics, tailored to their operational needs.

The MD530F's agility and maneuverability make it ideal for various law enforcement tasks, including surveillance, search-and-rescue operations, and aerial patrols. Its powerful Rolls-Royce 250-C30 engine provides reliable performance in both urban and rural environments, crucial for the department's diverse operational landscape.

The helicopter's compact size allows for efficient deployment and maneuvering in tight spaces, enhancing operational flexibility during critical missions. Equipped with advanced avionics and mission-specific equipment, the MD530F ensures enhanced situational awareness and operational effectiveness, enabling the Oxford Police Department to uphold public safety and respond swiftly to emergencies across their jurisdiction.

To discuss the Oxford Police Department Aviation Unit, Jack Schonely speaks with Lt Jake Durham, the mastermind and commander behind Oxford’s aviation unit, and Drew Muench, the chief maintenance pilot inside Oxford’s beautifully purpose-built hangar.

Jake Durham has deep roots in law enforcement and public safety that shaped his aspirations. Inspired by his family's legacy and an influential flight with the Alabama State Troopers Aviation Unit in 1997, Jake pursued a career in law enforcement. Starting as a patrolman with the Piedmont Police Department in 2003, he later joined the Oxford Police Department, where he climbed the ranks to lieutenant.

Jake's visionary leadership led to the creation of the Oxford Police Department’s Aviation Support Unit in 2011, despite initial setbacks. He meticulously developed the administrative components and overcame challenges in acquiring suitable aircraft.

From a motor-glider in 2013 to an OH-6, and later a TH-67, Jake's persistence paid off. In 2016, he designed and managed the construction of the department’s Special Operations Facility, housing the Emergency Services Unit, Technical Services Unit, and Aviation Support Unit. Jake's dedication continued with the refurbishment of an OH-6A helicopter in 2020 and the procurement of an MD530F in 2021, enhancing the unit's capabilities.

Chief maintenance pilot Drew Muench’s aviation career spans over three decades. Starting his flying career in 1983 as a line boy at a small airport, he earned his flight time through dedication and passion.

His journey took a pivotal turn in 1988, when he began his path to become a Marine Aviator, only to pivot to the Army due to an injury at OCS.

Serving 10 years as an Army Pilot, he mastered multiple aircraft including the AH-1, UH-1, OH-58, and CH-47, and became an esteemed instructor pilot. Transitioning to civilian life as an airline pilot, he faced challenges such as furloughs but found his place at NetJets, where he thrived as a Citation X captain and international training instructor.

His dedication to aviation extended to helping establish the Oxford Air Support Unit in 2015, where he continues to guide the unit as chief pilot.
Thank you to our special Sponsor MD Helicopters as well as Garmin and Wysong Enterprises.