TFO Tactics for Air Support - Level 1
March 25–26, 2026
Designed for law enforcement officers serving as Tactical Flight Officers (TFOs) operating drones, helicopters, or fixed-wing aircraft, this comprehensive 2-day program delivers proven fundamentals in suspect apprehension tactics. Students gain actionable strategies to locate fleeing suspects, integrate infrared (IR) searches, and coordinate ground units for maximum officer safety and de-escalation—directly improving your agency's mission outcomes and reducing liability.
What You'll Learn and Achieve:
- Specific tactics for searching, locating, and apprehending suspects using aerial assets.
- Mastery of IR search techniques and thermal imaging integration.
- Skills to direct arrest teams, enhancing the “reactionary gap” for safer resolutions.
- A training completion certificate to validate your expertise.
This course combines classroom instruction, practical demonstrations, and networking opportunities, ensuring you can apply new tactics immediately upon returning to duty.
Sample Course Schedule (Subject to Adjustment for Future Sessions):
- Day 1: Course briefing and meet-and-greet over coffee (local favorites like The Rush Coffee Truck), tactical instruction sessions, lunch break, then advanced tactics.
- Day 2: Tactical instruction, tour Hangar 1 (law enforcement aircraft outfitter) to see police aircraft integration in action, lunch break, and conclude with an in-depth incident debrief.
Meet Your Expert Instructors:
Led by Nick Minx, owner of Tactical Flying and a sworn San Diego police sergeant with 20+ years in patrol, air support, and canine operations. Tactical Flying’s instructor cadre is drawn from agencies including SDPD, SJPD, CHP, HPD, San Diego Sheriff’s Department, and the Netherlands Dutch National Police—bringing decades of real-world experience and tens of thousands of flight hours across rotorcraft, fixed-wing aircraft, and UAS platforms.
Course Details
Reference informationWhat this course covers
- Introductory airborne apprehension techniques
- Searching for suspects
- Containment and perimeters
- Specialized equipment utilization
- Tactical coordination of ground unit movement
This level satisfies a portion of ground instruction and supports the initial daytime flight phase outlined in Tactical Flying's TFO Training and Currency Standardization.
Prerequisites
No prerequisites.
Policies & Waiver
Please read before registeringRegistration Policy
By completing the course registration process, you are securing a reserved spot in this course. Please note that this reservation is contingent on the class meeting its minimum enrollment requirements. In the event that the minimum enrollment is met, you will be notified to proceed with booking your travel plans no later than 21 days prior to the course. Should the class not meet the required enrollment, you will receive a full refund of your registration fee. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to welcoming you to our program.
Refund Policy
Please be advised that, regrettably, no refunds will be issued for cancellations made within 14 days of the scheduled event. We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, but due to logistical arrangements and commitments made in preparation for the event, we are unable to process refunds within this timeframe. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to your continued support of our events.
Waiver Policy
I acknowledge that I am voluntarily participating in the training organized by Tactical Flying. I understand and acknowledge that there are inherent risks associated with participating in this conference, which may include but are not limited to physical injury, property damage, or other unforeseen incidents. In consideration for being allowed to participate, I hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless Tactical Flying, its officers, employees, agents, and representatives from any and all liability, claims, demands, actions, or causes of action whatsoever arising out of or related to any loss, damage, or injury, including death, that may be sustained by me, or to any property belonging to me, whether caused by the released parties or otherwise, while participating in the conference. I also agree to abide by all rules and regulations set forth by Tactical Flying for the duration of the training. I have read and understand this waiver of liability and voluntarily sign it as my own free act and deed.
Register
$395 • Secure checkoutComplete the form below to begin registration for TFO Tactics Certification - Level 1 (March 25–26, 2026). After submission, you’ll be routed to secure Stripe checkout. Registration is not complete until payment is successful.
TFO Tactics for Air Support — Level 1
March 25–26, 2026 • Carlsbad, CA (KCRQ) • Tuition: $395
Recommended lodging: Homewood Suites by Hilton Carlsbad • 2223 Palomar Airport Road
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What you’ll learn
- Airborne suspect apprehension fundamentals
- IR / thermal integration and search techniques
- Directing arrest teams & improving reactionary gap
- Ground-air coordination for officer safety
- Practical tactics you can apply immediately
At a glance
2206 Palomar Airport Rd Suite H • Carlsbad, CA 92011