Deschutes National Forest Hosts National Firefighting Aviation Training

Annual recertification event for the U.S. Forest Service Helicopter Rappel Program takes place near Bend, Oregon.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:01am

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of green, blue, and gray, depicting the vast, majestic scale of the Deschutes National Forest. In the distance, tiny specks of helicopters hover above the treetops, representing the aerial firefighters training to protect this wilderness.Aerial firefighters train in the vast, rugged terrain of the Deschutes National Forest, preparing to protect Oregon's forests and communities from the threat of wildfires.Bend Today

The Deschutes National Forest in Oregon is hosting the annual national recertification event for the U.S. Forest Service Helicopter Rappel Program from April 13 to April 21. During this time, the public can expect to see up to six helicopters hovering in the air west of Forest Service Road 41 and south of the Cascade Lakes Highway as 65 spotters and 185 veteran rappellers undergo training.

Why it matters

The Helicopter Rappel Program trains aerial-delivered wildland firefighters who rappel out of helicopters to fight wildfires in remote, difficult-to-reach locations. This national training event is crucial for maintaining the readiness and skills of these specialized firefighters who play a vital role in protecting forests and communities.

The details

The training event will take place adjacent to Forest Service Road 41 west of Bend, Oregon. While no trail or road closures are anticipated, the public is advised to adhere to any posted signage and avoid closed areas for their safety and the safety of the training participants. The training will run from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., including on weekends.

  • The training event is scheduled to start on April 13, 2026 and run through April 21, 2026.
  • Additional days may be added if weather impacts helicopter operations.

The players

Deschutes National Forest

A national forest located in central Oregon, managed by the U.S. Forest Service.

U.S. Forest Service Helicopter Rappel Program

A program that trains aerial-delivered wildland firefighters who rappel out of helicopters to fight wildfires in remote, difficult-to-reach locations.

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The takeaway

This annual training event is a critical part of maintaining the readiness and skills of the specialized firefighters who play a vital role in protecting forests and communities from wildfires, especially in remote and hard-to-reach areas.