The County of Los Angeles Fire Department (LACoFD) hosted its annual Aircraft Media Day on September 3, 2026, at Van Nuys Airport, highlighting the Department’s aerial firefighting resources and providing an update on the 2026 wildfire season.
Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone was joined by Los Angeles County Fifth District Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Acting Delegate of Québec in Los Angeles Anne-Catherine Briand-Fortin, and Vice President of the Board of Airport Commissioners Vanessa Aramayo, to emphasize the importance of preparedness and coordinated responses to wildfires.
The event featured LACoFD’s robust aerial fleet, including the seasonal arrival of two CL-415 SuperScoopers from the Government of Québec, marking the 33rd consecutive year of this lifesaving partnership. Also showcased was Helitanker 55, a Boeing Chinook CH-47 contracted through a joint initiative with Southern California Edison.
These aircraft complement LACoFD’s permanent aerial resources, including its Sikorsky S-70 Firehawk and Bell 412 helicopters, providing critical support to firefighters on the ground and helping crews quickly attack wildfires before they grow.
Officials also highlighted the importance of community preparedness through the Ready! Set! Go! program and Genasys Protect – Know Your Zone, which help residents prepare for wildfire threats, understand evacuation zones, and stay informed during an emergency.
