# @calfire on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DV4BEDUgSDP
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/63756916-calfire-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/01af57e63d.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-03-14T18:40:44.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** CAL FIRE (@calfire) — https://gondola.cc/calfire

## Caption

✈️ The Cycle of Readiness 🔥

For CAL FIRE Aviation, there is no off-season—only a continuous cycle of preparation and response. While you might see less fire response during the winter and spring, these months are the busiest for the CAL FIRE Aviation Training Center (CATC) and the Aviation Headquarters maintenance teams.

To ensure the fleet remains mission-ready, essential maintenance is conducted year-round both in the field and at headquarters. While base mechanics look after aircraft stationed in the field to maintain daily operational status, the winter and spring months bring the primary maintenance focus back to Aviation Headquarters. Aircraft return to HQ for comprehensive annual maintenance and meticulous safety inspections. Maintenance teams then put the aircraft through rigorous test flights to certify airworthiness before releasing them back to the field.

Although training is a daily requirement, the winter and spring months provide a window for crews to return to the California Aviation Training Center (CATC) for mandatory annual proficiency training and, for some, new certifications. New pilots, Air Tactical Group Supervisors (ATGS), and Front Seat Helitack Captains undergo an intensive curriculum, beginning with classroom academics and simulator sessions before progressing to real-world training flights. 

Some classes include complex scenarios involving all aircraft types and role-players on the ground. During these months, advanced specialized training—such as hoist rescues and night operations—alongside air operations supervisory classes, is also held.

#Aviation #CALFIRE #AirOps #Maintenance

## Stats

- **Views:** 0
- **Likes:** 2,755
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- **Comments:** 15

## Tags

airops, calfire, maintenance, aviation

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