McClellan, CA – CAL FIRE’s aviation program will conduct night operations training for helicopter crews and pilots Dec. 9-12 near Mammoth Bar in Placer County. This training ensures crews are prepared for nighttime aerial firefighting operations.

Residents near the training area can expect helicopter operations to end at 11 p.m. All flights are operated in accordance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and CAL FIRE safety protocols.

Importance of night training

CAL FIRE’s commitment to mission readiness requires operational training. By conducting exercises at night, pilots and crews gain valuable experience in water drop, navigation and communications using night vision goggles (NVG). This training improves their competency and ensures a consistent, safe response when fighting fires at night.

CAL FIRE places a high priority on public safety and is committed to minimizing disruption to surrounding communities. We appreciate the public’s understanding and cooperation in conducting this important training effort.

Editor’s note: Here is a video we filmed at McClellan earlier this year featuring the Firehawks and their staff.