An online survey undertaken on the Greater Hornby Residents’ Association's Facebook page found out of the 512 people who voted, 91 per cent were in support of the Eagle helicopter becoming a permanent fixture, while nine per cent were against it.
The helicopter has been patrolling the city as part of a five-week trial to determine whether communities will benefit from the new tool.
Residents’ association chairman Marc Duff said Hornby residents feel the helicopter gives them more security.
The association decided at its meeting last week it would make a submission in support of the new initiative.
“It is making a safer community, we have to accept it is a modern way to fight crime,” Mr Duff said.
Police will not provide the cost of running the Eagle, but a five-year contract for three 24-hour helicopters would cost about $42 million.
Mr Duff said the helicopter had already proven its worth. It has been deployed mainly for general crime, police pursuits and road safety.
Last week, an intoxicated woman driving on the wrong side of Pigeon Bay Rd was caught by the Eagle helicopter.
Recently, it tracked a car for 30km and arrested a man who fled police.
The Eagle trial is due to last until March 20.
Your feedback on the Eagle helicopter can be submitted here.
