Shocking cost to fuel worlds largest flying firefighting fleet as California wildfire season looms
California is staring down soaring fuel costs and expanding fire danger, yet state leaders are sticking with an expensive, all-in wildfire strategy.Jet fuel prices have surged between 82% and 110% in just three months, a spike that is hammering industries that rely on aircraftBut Cal Fire says its sprawling aerial firefighting operation will not scale back as wildfire season ramps up.That pledge comes with a hefty price tag.Gavin Newsom’s proposed 2026–27 budget includes $457 million for wildfire and forest resilience, adding to nearly $4 billion the state has committed since 2021.Newsom is required to release an updated version of the budget, known as the “May Revision,” by May 14.The plan relies on a mix of funding sources, including $315 million from a climate bond for large-scale forest and community projects and $142 million from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund for prescribed fire crews and other fire prevention tactics.Another $120 million in forest health grants was released early in 2026 to reduce fire risk and strengthen ecosystems.At the same time, California is committing $770.4 million each year to its firefighting workforce.California Post News: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, WhatsApp, LinkedInCalifornia Post Sports Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, XCalifornia Post Opinion California Post Newsletters: Sign up here!California Post App: Download here!Home delivery: Sign up here!Page Six Hollywood: Sign up here!The funding supports a 66-hour workweek and a plan to add more than 2,000 firefighters by 2028–29.The state has also spent about $380 million on its aerial fleet, which now includes 16 advanced helicopters.Officials say it is the largest aerial firefighting force in the world.Technology spending continues to climb as well, with $3.5 million annually for fire detection cameras and satellite mapping, plus $37.1 million for AI-powered intelligence systems.All of this is unfolding as more Californians are being pulled into hi...