Spanish traffic authorities have reactivated their fleet of radar-equipped surveillance helicopters after a two-month grounding due to an expired maintenance contract, resuming high-altitude monitoring of drivers across the country.
The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) Pegasus helicopters were out of service between September 1 and October 25, 2025. The pause in operations occurred because their previous maintenance agreement had ended.
Initially, no company submitted a bid for the new tender to provide these essential services.
The DGT has since secured a new contract valued at approximately $55 million USD (51 million euros). This agreement covers the operation, maintenance, and technical upgrades of the helicopters for 38 months, with a possibility for extension.
The Pegasus helicopters are equipped with high-resolution cameras and advanced radar systems.
They are capable of flying at altitudes of around 984 feet (300 meters) and can monitor vehicles from a distance of up to 0.62 miles (1 kilometer).
These systems record vehicle speeds and GPS positions. They can detect various infractions, including speeding, failure to wear a seatbelt, and using a mobile phone while driving.
Upon detecting an infraction, the helicopters begin filming and collecting data. This information can then be used to automatically issue fines.
However, the Pegasus system has limitations. It does not operate effectively in adverse weather conditions or at night, which can hinder its ability to accurately read license plates.