Los Angeles County Fire Department

The Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD) operates one of the most capable and experienced public-safety aviation units in the United States. Established in the late 1950s, the Air Operations Section is based at Barton Heliport in Pacoima, within the San Fernando Valley. From this location, the unit provides aerial firefighting, medical evacuation, and search and rescue services across 4,000 square miles of diverse terrain — from the Pacific coastline to the Angeles National Forest.

Beyond emergency response, LACoFD’s aviation unit also supports mutual-aid missions across Southern California, often working alongside CAL FIRE, Los Angeles City Fire Department, and county sheriff’s aviation divisions. The department’s pilots and crew members undergo rigorous annual training in firefighting tactics, hoist rescues, and instrument flight procedures, ensuring they can respond quickly to wildfires, floods, and large-scale disasters. With its combination of technology, skill, and experience, LACoFD Air Operations remains a national model for integrated aerial firefighting and emergency response.

As of 2025, the fleet includes a mix of Sikorsky S-70A and S-70i Firehawk plus older Bell 412 helicopters, all equipped for multi-mission response. The Firehawks serve as the unit’s primary firefighting aircraft, capable of carrying up to 1,000 gallons (3,785 liters) of water or retardant and equipped with rescue hoists, night vision systems, and advanced avionics for all-weather operations. The Bell 412s are used for command, reconnaissance, and medical transport missions, providing flexibility across both urban and wilderness environments.