C-130 Hercules Join Cal Fire Aerial Firefighting Fleet

Photo Credit: CAL FIRE

SACRAMENTO — The California Forestry Association (Calforests) released the following statement regarding the addition of the C-130 Hercules to its aerial firefighting fleet, marking the end of the aircraft’s retrofitting process:

“Adding a second C-130 aircraft to California’s aerial firefighting force today is a truly remarkable advancement in our state's wildfire suppression capabilities,” said Matt Dias, President and CEO of Calforests. “We must continue to prioritize forest management and wildfire prevention, but vigorous and efficient suppression forces are needed as we anticipate a drier-than-normal summer. The addition of this critical aircraft to the State’s wildfire suppression arsenal will save lives and property, and improve air quality. Calforests is grateful to the Governor and California Congressional Delegation for their prioritization of this aircraft’s expeditious retrofitting in time for wildfire season.”

BACKGROUND:

California Senator Alex Padilla and Representative Ken Calvert, CAL FIRE Chief Joe Tyler, alongside California’s congressional delegation, ensured that the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) would include the acquisition of seven C-130 aircraft to CAL FIRE’s wildfire suppression, search and rescue, and emergency operations pertaining to wildfires. 

C-130s – a converted U.S. Coast Guard cargo plane – are a powerhouse tool of firefighting capabilities with the capacity to drop 4,000 gallons of water/fire retardant in less than five seconds. This can occur within a single flight covering up to 800 miles.

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