Palm Coast, FL – June 21, 2024 – Shortly before 3 PM Thursday, a small fanfare of commissioners, staff and family gathered as the East Flagler Mosquito Control District welcomed their new Airbus H-125 helicopter. A significant upgrade to aerial operations, this state-of-the-art aircraft will replace their Bell 206B Jet Ranger which has been in service since 2004. The H-125 will enhance the District’s capabilities in its ongoing mission to protect public health and comfort.
The Airbus H-125, known for its payload capacity and extended range, will enable the District to conduct more efficient and effective mosquito control operations. These capabilities are crucial for the district’s comprehensive aerial program, which has been in operation since 1990. Chairman Mike Martin states that “Experts agree that the mosquito remains the world’s deadliest animal. With the District’s recent expansion, the need for an aircraft that could maintain the District’s level of service is crucial.”
The mission set of the East Flagler Mosquito Control District’s aerial program includes:
- Surveillance: The H-125 will be used to monitor mosquito populations in the intracoastal waterway as well as other water bodies, providing critical data to guide control measures.
- Larviciding: This daytime operation targets immature mosquitoes in water without impacting other aquatic wildlife.
- Adulticiding: Conducted at night, this operation focuses on reducing mature mosquito populations in the air, enhancing the comfort and safety of residents.
The East Flagler Mosquito Control District is dedicated to protecting the public from mosquito-borne diseases and improving the quality of life for its constituents. Safety is at the forefront of all operations conducted by the District. The Airbus H-125 is equipped with the latest safety features, including avionics and automated systems, as well as an impact resistant fuel tank to provide the highest level of safety for both the flight crew and the public. Continuous training and adherence to strict safety protocols further underscore the District’s dedication to conducting safe and effective aerial mosquito control operations.
The addition of the Airbus H-125 is another major step forward for the District. With increased operational capacity of the aircraft that will improve the safety and efficiency of surveillance and treatment operations, ultimately leading to better protection of public health.
East Flagler Mosquito Control District
210 Fin Way
Palm Coast, FL 32164
