Pioneering Police Aviation and Beyond
Superintendent David Scutchings’ journey with the South Australia Police (SAPOL) began in 1994, where he started his career in Elizabeth and Salisbury Patrols. His dedication and passion for law enforcement led him to become a detective with the Elizabeth Criminal Investigation Branch.
But a flight in a police helicopter is what made David realise that police aviation was his future. He went on to pass the STAR (Special Tasks and Rescue) Group selection course, joining STAR the following year in 2005 and, shortly afterwards, passed the Tactical Flight Officer Course.
“That was the start of 11 years flying in the police helicopter—a job that I love,” David says.
“Police helicopter flight officers are called on to complete a diverse range of tasks and each day is different.
“I have flown at low altitude over beautiful national parks on the west coast, hoisting cannabis plants from sand dunes. I have followed stolen vehicles travelling at more than 200 kilometres an hour. I have winched from a helicopter onto a container ship, into the ocean and onto cliffs.”
David says his job has also given him the opportunity to save people’s lives. “I have been proud to play a significant role in keeping the community safe,” he says.
Expansion and innovation
David has worked tirelessly throughout his career to improve SAPOL's aviation capability and is widely recognised as a subject matter expert in police aviation.In 2016, he managed a significant technology upgrade across the State Rescue Helicopter Service fleet. In 2018, he led the revitalisation of SAPOL's fixed-wing aviation capability. His exemplary work on Project Sauron saw inaugural law enforcement aeroplane The Caravan revolutionise the way that SAPOL conducts operations.
A commitment to lifelong learning
David’s dedication to professional growth and lifelong learning led him to complete a Graduate Certificate in Aviation Management at Griffith University. It not only enhanced his managerial skills but gave him the confidence to communicate effectively within his role.
Being awarded the Winston Churchill Fellowship in 2013 was a major professional highlight, allowing David to travel the world flying in police aircraft and examining opportunities to use police aircraft to reduce the road toll.
“As part of this fellowship, I got to fly over New York, Los Angeles, the Grand Canyon, London, Scotland, Las Vegas and San Diego—a privilege that very few will ever have,” he says.
During the pandemic, David managed Operation COVID-19 (Border Control—Aviation), resulting in 300,000 passengers being safely processed into South Australia via domestic and international airports. In 2022, David was promoted to Superintendent and Officer in Charge, Communications Group. He is now responsible for managing the communications centre, call centre and several other support areas to ensure that SAPOL can receive emergency calls from the public and dispatch appropriate resources.
His remarkable achievements and contributions saw him recognised in the 2023 King's Birthday Honours, receiving an Australian Police Medal. This prestigious award further highlights his significant impact on SAPOL and the broader community.
David emphasises the importance of lifelong learning in his success and says his degree was a solid foundation for personal and professional growth.
“Completing the Graduate Certificate in Aviation Management really value-added to my managerial skills and, at the same time, provided me with the ability to communicate with SAPOL ’s executive with an increased level of confidence and trust,” he says.
Further study and adventures on the horizon
Looking ahead, David plans on completing a Master of Aviation Management to further contribute to the aviation industry and progress his career in the police force.
Outside of his professional accomplishments, he devotes his spare time to enjoying life with his family and friends. He cherishes moments filled with action, adventure and fun, setting an example for his two teenage children, who are an inspiration to him.
“We set a goal several years ago to climb the highest peak in every state and territory in Australia and were very proud to achieve that goal last year climbing the ‘State 8’,” he says.
“This sets the kids up for life knowing they can achieve whatever they set their mind to.”
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