The Central Counties Air Operations Unit (CCAOU) came into service in April 1989 providing air support with a single Bell Jet Ranger helicopter to Staffordshire Police, West Mercia Constabulary, Warwickshire Police and the Regional Crime Squad. Operating out of a purpose-built base at Halfpenny Green Airport at Bobbington, near Wolverhampton, it was staffed by civilian pilots and by officers from the Staffordshire Police and West Mercia Constabulary. The CCAOU was initially under the command of Chief Inspector Geoffrey Hyde-Finn of West Mercia Constabulary who was previously second in command of the CCAOU's predecessor, the Midlands Air Operations Unit.

The Central Counties Air Operations Unit had the largest inland operating area in the UK for a police helicopter, ranging from Buxton in the north to Ross on Wye in the South. Services provided by the CCAOU included: Searching for offenders and missing persons, Containment, Reconnaissance and surveillance, Pursuits, Rapid transport, Digital aerial photography and Support to other agencies

Over the years of its operation, the capabilities of the CCAOU increased with the introduction of new helicopters and further advancements in technology. Any police officer in the three force areas could request assistance from the CCAOU using a dedicated channel. Other agencies, such as the Fire and Rescue Service and Customs and Excise as well as the Air Ambulance also benefited from the CCAOU. The Air Ambulance as it could not land in remote areas during darkness. The helicopter could provide detailed intelligence, monitor incidents until ground units arrived and provide a primary pursuit response and co-ordination of ground units with a downlink facility allowing the police control rooms to see the aerial view.