Aviation

The red and white 970TH helicopter sits momentarily idle on an outcropping overlooking a valley.
The 970TH helicopter touches down on an outcropping above a river valley.

NPS photo/C. Havener

For Alaska National Park Service Wildland Fire Management, the helicopter is equal to a vehicle in the Lower 48. It is our primary means of transportation. The fire program uses two helicopters to monitor fires, protect and preserve sensitive sites, and assist with search and rescues and hunting patrol operations. In times of need, it is shared with federal and state partners.

Last updated: December 20, 2018