The first phase of establishing a flight department is the most difficult, i.e., justifying the expense. This involves determining whether or not it is a cost-effective operation for the department. Some advantages of aircraft are consistency of patrol time unfettered by traffic congestion, access to areas inaccessible by police cars, speed, and advantage gained by being able to observe areas and activity from the air. Aircraft are particularly useful for departments with large and densely populated jurisdictions. If planners determine there is a need for a flight department, the next step is to determine how to fund it. Procurement may be accomplished through one of several options: purchase, lease, borrow, confiscate, or receipt of a donation. Suggestions are offered for each of these options. Operating costs must also be considered. These include fuel, oil, maintenance, insurance, pilot salaries, crew training, hangar and office rent, utilities, office equipment and supplies, tools, and tow bar or trailer (to move the aircraft). Guidelines for the management of the flight department are also provided.