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.  Click HERE to read the article on the Village News web site.

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.