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The National Police Air Service (NPAS) has announced the appointment of Chief Superintendent Fiona Gaffney as its new Chief Operating Officer, following the retirement of Chief Superintendent Vicki White after three decades of service to policing.
Chief Supt Gaffney, an officer with West Yorkshire Police, brings extensive operational experience and strategic leadership to the role. She is also set to become NPAS’s Accountable Manager, pending approval from the Civil Aviation Authority. In the interim, Glenn Shelley, NPAS Head of Business Services, will serve in the position temporarily.
Gaffney’s policing career began in 1995 with the Royal Military Police, where she served in Bosnia-Herzegovina and Kosovo. Since then, she has held a variety of roles across multiple police forces, gaining experience in specialist functions, managing complex budgets, and leading national collaborations.
In her new position, Gaffney is expected to play a key role in supporting NPAS operations and driving forward the organisation’s modernisation efforts, including the integration of new technology and continued development of police aviation services.
“I’m really looking forward to supporting the teams in delivering their operational response, while also understanding how technology might help us get better. I also look forward to spending time out at the bases and in departments, understanding the opportunities and challenges in the world of police aviation.”
Chief Supt Gaffney.
Her appointment follows the retirement of Chief Supt Vicki White, who steps down after 30 years in policing. White’s tenure at NPAS was marked by significant developments, including the ongoing implementation of a multi-million-pound aircraft fleet replacement programme. Her leadership as Accountable Manager was widely praised within the organisation.
Reflecting on her career, White described the role as a privilege and expressed pride in the work of NPAS personnel. “It truly is life-saving stuff and they make a real difference to the safety and security of our communities and our emergency services colleagues,” she said.
NPAS extended its thanks to White for her service and welcomed Gaffney as the organisation continues its mission to support frontline policing across the UK.
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