LACoFD Conducts Aerial Firefighting Training in Santa Monica Mountains

TOPANGA CANYON – The County of Los Angeles Fire Department (LACoFD) conducted aerial firefighting training exercises on Sunday, May 3, 2026, in the Santa Monica Mountains above Topanga Canyon, a beloved gateway to the rugged wilderness that draws hikers and nature lovers year-round.

The training, which took place from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., involved LACoFD personnel and partner agencies at the 69 Bravo Helispot. These exercises are crucial for maintaining readiness and coordination among departments, especially as the region approaches warmer months and increased fire danger.

Residents in the bohemian Topanga Canyon area may have observed increased helicopter activity during the three-hour training window. Such drills are a regular part of the LACoFD's efforts to prepare for potential wildfires, ensuring that aerial resources can be deployed effectively and safely when needed.

The 69 Bravo Helispot serves as a strategic location for these types of operations, providing a vital staging area for helicopters involved in fire suppression and reconnaissance in the rugged terrain of the Santa Monica Mountains.