Dyfed-Powys Police is set to lose its force helicopter under cost-cutting plans for a National Police Air Service, it was revealed today.

The force currently has one helicopter, which covers Powys, Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire. But the Association of Chief Police Officers (Acpo) today said it could go.

It came as Acpo announced proposals for a National Police Air Service they say will save £15 million a year.

Dyfed-Powys Police said the proposal was at an early stage and would have to be approved by the police authority.

Sian George, force spokeswoman, said: “As outlined in the Acpo press release, a proposal has been announced as part of a National Police Air Service to withdraw the Dyfed-Powys Police aircraft from service with provision continuing from other bases in the area.

“But this proposal is at an early stage and the matter has not been discussed in depth as yet.

“Some initial representations have been made at a national level which outline some concerns in relation to the proposal, but discussions in greater detail need to take place to consider the implications for Dyfed-Powys Police and the Welsh region.

“The plan would have to be approved by the Dyfed-Powys Police Authority and consultation with them has not yet taken place, therefore there is no certainty that it will go ahead at this stage.”

Under the austerity plans, the number of police helicopters and air bases will be slashed by a third across England and Wales. However, it is claimed the measures will provide a more effective and “joined-up” air service, while simultaneously driving down costs.

There are currently 30 police airbases in England and Wales that serve 33 aircraft, costing forces £66 million a year. Under the plans this will be cut to 20 bases serving 23 aircraft – shaving £15 million off the air support budget.

The new national service will be responsible for the whole of England and Wales, operated centrally.

Under the plans, aircraft serving the Merseyside, Cambridge and Dyfed-Powys regions would be scrapped. The current response rate would not be affected, police chiefs claim.