The Florida Polytechnic University Police Department in Lakeland has introduced a unique addition to its fleet: a $148,000 single-seat electric flying vehicle nicknamed Astro. Developed by Jetson, the company behind the Jetson ONE personal flying machine, this aircraft represents a potential shift in how law enforcement agencies respond to emergencies.
Astro utilizes electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology, allowing it to ascend and descend vertically without a runway. The compact, single-pilot craft features eight electric motors powering eight propellers and is controlled by a four-axis joystick. The university's police department received the aircraft during the summer of 2026, and personnel, including Police Chief Aaron Murray, have undergone flight training. The aircraft, registered as N911FP, is a standard Jetson ONE model equipped with police lights, mounts for action cameras, and a standard police radio.
The vehicle has a top speed of 63 mph and an estimated flight time of approximately 20 minutes per charge. Recharging takes about 90 minutes with a 240-volt connection or three hours using a standard outlet. To extend operational time, batteries can be swapped, allowing for quicker turnarounds between flights. Astro has a maximum payload capacity of 210 pounds, which includes the pilot and any equipment.
Florida Polytechnic University intends to explore Astro's potential for responding to emergencies, particularly in scenarios where ground access is compromised, such as after severe weather events. Police Chief Aaron Murray believes the aircraft can help officers monitor the campus and reach inaccessible areas. The department also plans to investigate its use for delivering emergency supplies. However, Astro's design prevents it from transporting passengers, meaning it cannot be used for medical evacuations or rescue missions.
A significant hurdle for Astro's operational use is regulatory approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Jetson initially designed the ONE for recreational use under FAA's Part 103 ultralight rules, which prohibit its use for official patrols. To be used for public safety missions, the university requires authorization under FAA Part 91 rules. The university indicated in mid-October 2026 that this approval process was in its final stages, with an expected resolution by November or December of that year.
Beyond its patrol potential, Astro will serve as a research platform for Florida Polytechnic University students, particularly those in the new aerospace engineering degree program launched in fall 2026. They will study electric aircraft technology and the challenges associated with operating such vehicles. The university is also exploring virtual training simulations for officers and collaborating with regional law enforcement agencies on potential emergency response scenarios.
While Astro's introduction signals a new frontier in law enforcement technology, its widespread adoption faces limitations such as short flight duration and payload restrictions. Questions also arise regarding its advantages over drones for surveillance and the privacy implications of police aircraft. The university's initiative aims to gather data on these aspects while pursuing the necessary federal approvals for operational police use. Jetson has reported that its 2026 and 2027 production is sold out, with orders being taken for 2028 at the same $148,000 price point.