CAL FIRE NEWS RELEASE

California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection San Bernardino – Inyo – Mono Unit

CONTACT: Public Information Officer 909-881-6949

RELEASE DATE: 6/1/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Exclusive-Use Helicopter Enhances Wildfire Response Capabilities in Mono County

MAMMOTH LAKES, CA — CAL FIRE, in partnership with the Town of Mammoth Lakes and Mammoth Yosemite Airport, has expanded wildfire response capabilities in the Eastern Sierra through the assignment of an exclusive-use Type 1 helicopter based at Mammoth Yosemite Airport for the 2026 fire year.

The aircraft, a CH-47D Chinook helicopter, is equipped with a 2,800-gallon fixed water tank and will be available to support initial attack and extended wildfire suppression operations throughout the region. The helicopter provides firefighters with a rapid-response aerial resource capable of delivering large volumes of water to emerging incidents, helping slow fire growth and improve firefighter effectiveness on the ground.

The placement of this aircraft in Mammoth Lakes reflects the strong partnership between CAL FIRE, the Town of Mammoth Lakes, and Mammoth Yosemite Airport. Through continued collaboration, local and state partners are enhancing emergency preparedness and strengthening wildfire response capabilities across Mono County and the Eastern Sierra.

“The support provided by Mammoth Yosemite Airport and the Town of Mammoth Lakes has been instrumental in bringing this resource to the Eastern Sierra,” said CAL FIRE officials. “This partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to protecting residents, visitors, critical infrastructure, and the region’s natural resources.”

The helicopter will complement existing local, state, and federal firefighting resources and will be strategically positioned to respond to wildfires throughout the Eastern Sierra and surrounding areas.

As California continues to experience year-round wildfire threats, investments in aviation resources and strong partnerships remain critical to protecting communities and increasing public safety.

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