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The Minnesota State Patrol’s aviation fleet is in a turnover process, with the auction for one of the unit’s trusty aircraft closing next week.

As part of the latest state budget, Minnesota lawmakers authorized purchases of a new tactical helicopter and a single-engine airplane for the State Patrol. They set aside $18.5 million for the combined purchase costs, as well as for staff and equipment needs of pilots in the unit.

The Patrol currently has two helicopters and four planes that are 

. It acquired a new Cessna last month but it won’t be in use until outfitted with proper police equipment sometime early next year, according to a Department of Public Safety spokesperson.

As part of the fleet upgrade, the state is auctioning off a 40-year-old Cessna that has been used in traffic enforcement, surveillance and transport of personnel. It has more than 12,000 flight hours on it.

 closes Jan. 5. Bidding began at $2,500 and as of Thursday was above $70,000.

The plane is listed as in good condition and is being sold as-is. The winning bidder must pick it up at Holman Field in St. Paul.

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Looking for a used Cessna airplane? State officials are auctioning off a 1983 single-engine plane as part of a State Patrol fleet turnover. Bids are already topping $70,000.

Preparing for new aircraft, Minnesota State Patrol looks to unload old Cessna

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