Cal Fire has reached a new milestone with the addition of two Sikorsky S-70i Firehawk helicopters, bringing its total fleet to 16.
These helicopters are purpose-built to meet the demands of California’s year-round wildfire and emergency response needs.
As the largest Firehawk fleet in the world, these aircraft are a critical tool in Cal Fire’s mission to respond quickly, operate safely, and contain wildfires before they grow.
Each Firehawk is equipped with:
- A 1,000-gallon water tank for aerial firefighting
- Night vision technology to support 24-hour operations
- An external hoist for swift rescue missions
- Room to transport a nine-person Helitack crew
These aircraft help Cal Fire keep 95 percent of wildfires to 10 acres or less—a key part of the agency’s aggressive initial attack strategy.
“Our fleet of Firehawk helicopters – now the largest in the world — is a proven tool in our growing firefighting arsenal,” said California Governor Gavin Newsom.
“During the devastating Los Angeles fires, we saw them in action, conducting critical missions at night which stopped the Palisades Fire from dipping into Mandeville Canyon and toward the 405 freeway. Hundreds of homes were saved because of these state-of-the-art helicopters and their heroic pilots.”
