McClellan, CA — CAL FIRE will kick off its 2026 Night Aerial Firefighting Exercise (NAFE) training cycle with its initial NAFE evolution. This foundational exercise delivers initial qualifications and mandatory currency training for night Helicopter Coordinators (HLCO) and night helicopter flight crews ahead of peak fire activity.
WHEN: Tuesday, June 2 through Thursday, June 4, 2026.
WHERE: Ground operations and briefings will be based out of the CAL FIRE Aviation Training Center at Aviation Headquarters, McClellan. Flight and water-dropping exercises will take place over Lake Englebright near the community of Smartsville and Lake Clementine near the community of Auburn.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Communities near McClellan, Lake Englebright, and Lake Clementine may observe and hear increased low-flying helicopters, particularly during the evening and night hours up until midnight. All training flights will strictly adhere to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and CAL FIRE safety protocols.
WHY: Night aerial firefighting carries inherent risks that require precise coordination and communication. These exercises utilize a building-block approach—starting with daytime terrain reconnaissance and sand table simulations before live water drops using Night Vision Goggles (NVGs). By preparing for aerial firefighting at night early, we increase the experience and efficiency of our flight crews that will be fighting fires from the air at night this summer.
CAL FIRE deeply appreciates the community’s partnership and support as we prepare our crews.
To learn more about the CAL FIRE Aviation Program, please visit fire.ca.gov/aviation.