Aviation News – LA County enhances aerial firefighting with new Sikorsky FIREHAWK® helicopters
The County of Los Angeles Fire Department has announced the acquisition of two additional Sikorsky FIREHAWK® helicopters, strengthening its fleet for aerial firefighting and all-hazard emergency response. The move marks the latest step in a 25-year partnership with Sikorsky, enhancing the county’s ability to respond rapidly to wildfires and natural disasters.
The new contract expands one of the most capable public safety helicopter fleets in the United States. The FIREHAWK, based on the Sikorsky Black Hawk airframe, is a multi-mission aircraft engineered for fire suppression, rescue operations, and emergency transport. Los Angeles County’s Fire Department has operated Sikorsky aircraft for more than two decades, and this latest modernization underscores its commitment to upgrading aviation resources amid growing wildfire threats across Southern California.
Operationally, the FIREHAWK features powerful twin engines, a 1,000-gallon external water tank, and advanced avionics systems that allow precise aerial water drops and safe operation in low-visibility conditions. The aircraft can transition quickly between firefighting and rescue missions, making it a vital tool in protecting both lives and property during high-risk emergencies.
“The FIREHAWK has become an indispensable asset in our fight against California’s increasingly intense wildfire seasons,” said a Los Angeles County Fire Department spokesperson. “Expanding our fleet ensures we can continue to deliver fast, effective, and life-saving aerial response when our communities need it most.”
The addition of two more helicopters will significantly enhance operational readiness and reduce response times across Los Angeles County’s vast and varied terrain. The modernization effort also supports the county’s long-term strategy to integrate next-generation firefighting technology into its public safety infrastructure.
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