On Monday, September 9, 2024, the County of Los Angeles Fire Department hosted the annual Contract Aircraft Media Day, at the Van Nuys Airport, to provide an update on the 2024 wildfire season.
This annual press conference featured the LACoFD’s current fleet of aerial resources, including the seasonal arrival of the SuperScoopers, and the leased Coulson Chinook CH-47, also known as Helitanker 55, made possible through a partnership with Southern California Edison.
David Ruiz, Public Affairs and Cooperation Director of Québec’s Los Angeles Office, joined LACoFD Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone to discuss the importance of the aircraft in response to wildfires.
This is the 31st year the LACoFD has leased the pair of SuperScoopers from the Government of Québec for a 90-day period with the option extend the contract as needed. These dynamic aircrafts officially went into service on Sunday, September 1.
With ground and aerial resources available 24 hours a day, Chief Marrone assured residents and communities that local firefighters are doing all they can, both in the air and on the ground to quickly mobilize to contain wildfires before they get out of control.
Residents are encouraged to be ready and harden their home by developing a personalized Ready! Set! Go! Wildfire Action Plan. For more information, visit fire.lacounty.gov/rsg.
