CAL FIRE UH-1H

Mission

The CAL FIRE Super Huey’s primary mission is responding to initial attack wildfires and rescue missions. When responding to wildfires, the helicopter can quickly deliver a Helitack Crew for ground firefighting, which it supports with water drops. The helicopters are also used for firing operations using either a Helitorch or a Plastic Spherical Dispenser (PSD) on wildland fires or prescribed burns, transporting internal cargo loads, mapping, medical evacuations and non-fire emergency missions.

Manufacturer

Bell Helicopters, Fort Worth, Texas.

Original Owner

United States Army, 1963 to 1975. The UH-1H was used as a troop/cargo transport and for specialized operations.

Acquired by CAL FIRE

In 1981, CAL FIRE acquired 12 UH-1F helicopters through the Federal Excess Personal Property (FEPP) program. In 1990 they were replaced by newer, highly modified, Vietnam-era UH-1H helicopters referred to as the “Super Huey.”