Police in Scotland expand the use of a force helicopter as part of efforts to tackle gang-related violence. Multiple outlets report that Police Scotland’s helicopter activity has risen over the past three years, with flying hours increasing by about 27–30%. The coverage links the higher air use to policing operations aimed at underworld crime, including firearm-related deployments and vehicle pursuits. One report describes helicopter circling over Glasgow as officers attempt to help manage gang violence, while another says the aircraft plays a role in Operation Portaledge. The figures are presented as part of releases by Police Scotland, indicating a sustained increase in operational flying rather than isolated incidents. All sources frame the change as a response to ongoing criminal violence on Scotland’s streets, with air support used to support ground policing and surveillance. The reports do not provide details on the number of arrests or outcomes tied specifically to individual flights, focusing instead on the increase in helicopter use and the operational context in which it is being deployed.