Traffic enforcement is the top priority of the Ohio Highway Patrol's Aviation Section, accounting for 95 percent of the more than 9,000 hours flown each year. The remaining 5 percent is taken up with services such as manhunts, both highway patrol-generated and requested by other law enforcement agencies; emergency relays of blood, organs, and other critical cargo; aerial photography assignments; and other emergencies logically requiring aerial help. Ohio's 10 planes and 2 jet helicopters are flown by a staff of 11 officer pilots and serviced by a five-person ground crew. The section generates about 10 percent of the department's arrest activity. The aircraft can cover twice as much ground in half the time using less gasoline than conventional patrol cars. Pilot selection is based on training, experience, and the officer's capability as a trooper. Pilots are assigned to areas around the State, where they either live or have been stationed. Reasons for maintaining an aircraft fleet include (1) efficient use of fuel, (2) high enforcement contact totals, (3) quicker discovery of disabled vehicles, and (4) low maintenance costs associated with no depreciation and long equipment life.