LAPD helicopter tracker with real-time operating costs

As someone who lives in central LA and has them circle my neighborhood frequently, actually shaking my house, I think this is awesome.

These needs should be filled by drones. Way less noisy, dangerous and expensive.

why LA is spending thousands/hour when drones exist is crazy.

You're talking about technology that's only become realistic in the last couple years. Even then, there's probably nothing off-the-shelf that would serve the current need.

LAPD has been patrolling with helicopters for decades. I have yet to see a drone follow a car in high speed pursuit down the 5 at 100+ MPH.

The MQ-8 would be cheaper to operate.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northrop_Grumman_MQ-8_Fire_Sco...