Helitanker arrives at Paso Robles Air Attack Base for peak wildfire season response
– Firefighters in San Luis Obispo County have an additional resource available for wildfire response as a CH-47D Chinook helitanker has arrived at the Paso Robles Air Attack Base under an exclusive-use contract for the 2026 fire season.
The aircraft, designated Helitanker 7PJ, is the same Chinook helicopter that supported local firefighting operations last year. The helicopter can conduct nighttime firefighting missions, allowing it to operate during hours when many other aircraft are unavailable.
Helitanker 7PJ will typically be staffed and available from 3 p.m. to 3 a.m. each day. Fire crews can use the aircraft for afternoon suppression operations and nighttime firefighting missions.
“7PJ is a welcome addition to the aerial response we have in the San Luis Obispo Unit and will also be utilized statewide as large incidents emerge,” said Cody Dunn, battalion chief assigned to the Paso Robles Air Attack Base.
The CH-47D Chinook can travel at speeds of up to 120 knots, or 138 mph, and carry up to 2,300 gallons of water per drop. Officials said the aircraft’s speed and payload capacity allow it to respond quickly to emerging incidents and support firefighters on the ground.
Residents may see the aircraft responding to initial attack incidents throughout San Luis Obispo County and other parts of California when needed for larger fires.
According to Cal Fire officials, night-flying aircraft have become an increasingly important part of California’s wildfire suppression strategy because they allow firefighting operations to continue after sunset, when cooler temperatures, higher humidity, and reduced fire behavior can create conditions that support containment efforts.
Officials said the arrival of Helitanker 7PJ strengthens aerial firefighting capabilities in San Luis Obispo County as agencies prepare for the peak of the 2026 wildfire season.
