Advancing Rotorcraft Firefighting: Operational Lessons & Innovation Summit

The SoCal Chapter of the Vertical Flight Society (VFS) and Vertical Aviation International (VAI) are proud to announce the “Advancing Rotorcraft Firefighting: Operational Lessons & Innovation Summit.” The event will be dedicated to advancing aerial firefighting capabilities in response to the recent wildfires in Los Angeles. This gathering will be hosted by Robinson Helicopter Company and will bring together key stakeholders from both the operational and technical communities, fostering critical discussions on current firefighting strategies and the future of rotary- and vertical-lift aircraft in emergency response.

The event will provide an in-depth overview of the methods and technologies presently used in helicopter-based wildfire suppression, offering invaluable insights to engineers, researchers, and aviation professionals. Additionally, it will serve as a platform to facilitate an open dialogue on the next generation of aerial firefighting innovations, exploring how advancements in aircraft design, avionics, autonomous systems, and emerging VTOL technologies can enhance efficiency, safety, and effectiveness in combating wildfires.

By bridging the gap between operational experience and technical expertise, this event aims to drive meaningful advancements in firefighting aviation, ensuring that future technologies align with real-world operational needs.

• Date: April 5, 2025
• Time: 10 AM – 2 PM
• Location: 2931 Airport Dr., Torrance, CA 90505
• Speakers:
  • David Smith President and CEO Robinson Helicopter Company
  • Michael Sagely Senior Pilot Los Angeles County Fire Department
  • Dan Child – Chief Pilot LAFD
  • Cody Hamann – Rescue Pilot – Orange County Fire Authority
  • Roger Douglass – Pilot – Coulson Aviation
  • Warren Curry – VP of Sales – Skyryse
  • Angelo Collins – Executive Director of Vertical Flight Society
  • Chuck Street – Western Region Representative Vertical Aviation International
• Program:
  • 10 AM: Check-in & Networking
  • 10:30 AM: Welcome Address (RHC, VAI, VFS)
  • 11 AM: Session 1 – Operational Challenges & Pilot Q&A
  • 12 PM: Lunch & Networking
  • 1 PM: Session 2 – Technology Development
  • 2 PM: Event Close

Please register by Wednesday, April 2nd. Tickets after April 2nd will be available for $30.