Aviation Program

The largest civil aerial firefighting fleet in the world

CAL FIRE’s world-renowned aviation program responds to thousands of wildland fires throughout California each year. CAL FIRE’s current aviation fleet includes Grumman S-2T Airtankers, Bell UH-1H Super Huey Helicopters, Sikorsky S-70i Helicopters, North American OV-10A (& 1 D Model) Bronco Air Tactical Aircraft and C-130 Hercules Airtankers. These aircraft, highly skilled pilots, and aviation support staff are strategically located throughout California at our 14 air tanker bases, 10 CAL FIRE helitack bases and one CAL FIRE/San Diego County Sheriff helitack base. Aircraft can reach the most remote State Responsibility Area (SRA) fires in approximately 20 minutes, with the goal of keeping 95% of fires at 10 acres or less. CAL FIRE’s fleet of more than 60 fixed and rotary wing aircraft make it the largest civil aerial firefighting fleet in the world.

CAL FIRE Aviation

CAL FIRE's Aviation Program is vital in firefighting efforts. Utilizing a fleet of air tankers, helicopters, and uncrewed aerial systems, the program enhances firefighting capabilities, improves situational awareness, and supports ground crews in efficiently battling wildfires.

Modular Aerial Fire Fighting Systems

MAFFS began in 1971 as a joint effort between the U.S. Forest Service and the Department of Defense to produce the equipment, training and operational procedures to integrate military air tankers into a national firefighting response. When requested, MAFFS-equipped C-130’s help boost state wildfire suppression efforts when contracted airtankers are fully committed or not readily available.
MAFFS

Helicopters

General Aviation

Airtactical Aircraft