Fallbrook Airpark and the 2017 Bonsall Fire
Fallbrook Airpark and the 2007 Rice Fire
Early in the morning of Tuesday October 23rd, 2007, the Fallbrook
Airpark became home to several fire fighting helicopters battling the Rice Fire.
The helicopters included a range from a smaller spotting type model to large
heavy lift aircraft. Lacking dedicated helipad space for the helicopters, the
main runway was closed to normal "fixed wing" aircraft since the helicopters had
to be parked on the main runway. These aircraft were initially utilized to fight
the Rice Fire, thus helping to limit the damage to Fallbrook, but then they
continued their work in support of the Poomacha Fire near Palomar Mountain.
FFCAP President Doug Dwyer happened to be at the airport when one of the
helicopters arrived, and graciously provided ground transportation for the crew
to their lodgings. Lacking a vehicle for use during their work in
Fallbrook, Doug gave them the use of his car for their entire stay.
The Village News ran article on Novemer 2nd that details the roll the Airpark
played in helping fight the fires.
Here are a few photos of the smoke over Fallbrook as seen from the air. They
were taken by 11 year old Brandon Schneider around 5:30PM on Monday, October
22nd, as his family evacuated from Fallbrook by plane.
Here are additional pictures taken during the
fire days
Pictures near
my house
click here
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