

By County News Center, County of San Diego Communications Office
Photos and video courtesy of San Diego Sheriff's Department
November 25, 2023 (San Diego) - Two new state-of-the-art helicopters joined the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department air fleet as part of the department’s commitment to safeguarding communities.
Sheriff Kelly A. Martinez unveiled the new fire helicopter and patrol helicopter, a $21 million investment for the two, this week at the Aerial Support to Law Enforcement Agencies base in El Cajon.

Every second counts in an emergency. The new helicopters are a regional asset and significantly enhance the department’s ability to respond to emergencies.
The new fire helicopter is the 412EPX. It is designed to operate in challenging environments and weather conditions typically encountered during firefighting missions. The Sheriff Department cooperative work with CAL FIRE will continue with seven firefighters on board the 412 during fire calls. These coordinated efforts are crucial in stopping fires before they become catastrophic.
“The new Helicopter will dramatically improve our response to both wildfires and our ability to rescue people in remote areas,” said Tony Mecham, County Fire and CAL FIRE San Diego Unit Chief.

The ASTREA aviation unit has been providing aerial support to the Sheriff’s Department and partner agencies across the county since 1971. ASTREA averages nearly 6,000 missions per year to support patrol, as well as fire and rescue calls throughout the region.
Funding for the helicopters came from the department’s budget and Proposition 172 money.
Recent comments