Aviation is a critical part of how California fights wildfires. CAL FIRE operates the world’s largest aerial firefighting fleet, with aircraft and crews ready to respond to wildfires across California. On National Aviation Day, we recognize the pilots, aviation crews, and support personnel behind our fleet. #NationalAviationDay# #AerialFirefighting# #AirOps##CALFIRE#

The skies above a wildfire are filled with teamwork, precision, and critical decisions. Follow the story of an Air Attack trainee as he works to gain skills and confidence while facing the challenges of one of aerial firefighting’s most demanding roles. 🎬 Watch Episode 4 now: #AirborneFirefighters# #AerialFirefighting# #CALFIRE#

California’s aerial firefighting fleet is on the scene of the #DoveFire# in Tuolumne County. @Cal_OES & @CAL_FIRE are coordinating with local first responders to rapidly attack the fire. Please continue to listen to local emergency personnel for the latest information and evacuation guidance.

California’s unofficial state birds. 🚁✈️ CAL FIRE operates the world’s largest aerial firefighting fleet, with aircraft and aviation personnel supporting emergency response statewide. From air tankers to helicopters, CAL FIRE’s aviation fleet is equipped to support a wide range of missions. Highly trained pilots and aviation crews work closely with firefighters on the ground to deliver water and retardant, transport crews, support firing operations, conduct hoist rescues, and provide critical assistance throughout emergency response. #CALFIRE# #Aviation# #WildfireResponse# #Firefighting# #CaliforniaWildfires#

Since I took office as governor, California has built the world’s largest aerial firefighting fleet, multiplied our @CAL_FIRE budget, and equipped personnel with cutting-edge tech to help respond faster to fire threats. We are leading with science, innovation, and grit.

🚁 SEE WILDFIRE SMOKE? STAY AWAY. Pilots and drone operators (yes, including drone hobbyists) should remain at least 15 miles from wildfire smoke and avoid active aerial firefighting operations. Wildfire airspace is hazardous, with low-flying helicopters and airtankers, rapidly changing conditions, and reduced visibility. Not every wildfire has a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) in place when aircraft first arrive. Even if your GPS or flight app doesn't show one yet, treat any smoke column as active firefighting airspace. Unauthorized flights can ground firefighting aircraft, delay emergency response, and may result in significant fines, criminal penalties, and liability for firefighting costs. Your decision to stay away helps firefighters do their job safely and protects lives, property, and natural resources. #FlySafe# #AviationSafety# #UAS# #Wildfires# #California#

Aviation resources are supporting firefighters on the #TimberFire# near Big Sur from the air, day and night. So far, aircraft assigned to the incident have delivered: ✈️ 219,000 gallons of retardant 🚁 68,000 gallons of water Of that water, approximately 20,000 gallons were dropped at night by crews aided by Night Vision Goggles. Aerial firefighting is just one element of CAL FIRE’s comprehensive fire suppression response. #CALFIRE# @CALFIREBEU