2007-24
MEDIA ADVISORY :  June 6 , 2007
FROM:   The Kansas Highway Patrol
CONTACT:   Lieutenant John A. Eichkorn (785) 296-6800
Technical Trooper Edna Buttler(785) 296-6800

Patrol Unveils New Aircraft Hangar in Topeka

Ribbon cutting planned with Governor Sebelius

The Kansas Highway Patrol is pleased to unveil its newest facility, an aircraft hangar located in North Topeka. The hangar will house the agency's Topeka-based helicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, and the Executive Aircraft, and it includes storage space and office space for the aircraft operations staff.

There will be a ribbon cutting at 11 a.m., June 13, at the hangar, 3600 NE Sardou, Building 28, Billard Airport. Governor Kathleen Sebelius and Patrol Superintendent Colonel William R. Seck will speak during a news conference at the ribbon cutting. There will be photo opportunities with the Patrol's aircraft, dignitaries, retired KHP pilots, and other invited guests.

The Patrol's aircraft operations unit began in 1961 with a primary responsibility of traffic enforcement. Since then, the program has flourished to include surveillance, search and rescue, transportation of vital equipment and personnel, and other important tasks. The new hangar in Topeka is the first agency-owned aircraft facility.