The Pierce County Sheriff's Department has operated aircraft since the 1940's. Currently, the primary service aircraft is a Cessna 206; it was obtained by seizure following an illegal drug manufacturing investigation in the mid 1980's. The Cessna 206 is equipped with a Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) camera, Aero-mapping system, video recorder, and video down-link capabilities. The Air Unit's secondary aircraft is a Cessna 182; it is used for pilot training, transport missions, and as a back up aircraft when the Cessna 206 is down for scheduled maintenance.

The Air Unit is comprised of a Sergeant, three Sheriff's Department pilots, two volunteer pilots, and five Tactical Flight Officers (TFOs). The TFO operates the FLIR camera and related systems. Both aircraft are equipped with state of the art avionics and radio communications equipment. Safety is the guiding operational concern for Air Unit personnel. The unit has not had a single serious accident or injury as a result of its operations.

During the summer of 2008, the Pierce County Air Support Unit flew weekend evening missions in support of patrol operations. The unit also assists with Search and Rescue (SAR) missions, counter drug efforts, radio communications support, surveillance, aerial photography, and other requests for assistance by various governmental agencies.