MPD Welcomes Hekili: Maui Police Department's New Multi-Mission Helicopter

Maui Police Department Helicopter Blessing

The Maui Police Department held a blessing ceremony earlier today 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.

“August 8th occurred, 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,” said 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 Hawai‘i 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 is not only tailored for law enforcement use but also serves as a shared public safety asset with MFD. Key capabilities include:

• Twin Engines – Enhanced power and safety redundancy; can continue flight on one engine if necessary.

• Rescue Hoist & Human External Cargo Certified – Enables faster, safer rescues and reduces exposure during critical missions.

• Seating for Up to 10 Personnel – Supports rapid transport of specialized 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.

• 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 outstanding partnership with 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 added. “This airship gives us the flexibility, speed, and safety to serve our community better—whenever and wherever we’re needed.”