Deputy/Pilot Benny Magness is in charge of the aviation unit of the Baxter County Sherff's Office. He and Deputy/Pilot Dave Allen are both part-time pilots and volunteer many hours each year.

The Baxter County Sheriff’s Office is one of only four in the State of Arkansas that is fortunate enough to have an Aviation Component and to own and operate a helicopter. The Aviation Unit has been in operation for over twenty years. The Sheriff’s Office currently operates an OH-58 observation helicopter that was obtained without cost through a federal government program. 

The use of the helicopter has proven its benefit time and time again. Its use has been instrumental in apprehending fugitives and fleeing suspects, and has played a crucial role in search and recovery missions for lost and missing persons in Baxter County and the surrounding area. The Project Lifesaver program also relies heavily on the department’s helicopter.

During 2009, the Aviation Unit's helicopter was in use for 67.2 hours on various missions, and the pilots volunteered 212 hours of their time to the department.  During the ice storm, the helicopter was used by officials to survey damage in the county to roads, infrastructure, and utility poles and lines.