Female fire helicopter pilot is on California's front line of attack

By Jennifer Harrison and Kayna Whitworth

Nov 12, 2019, 4:19 AM ET

Watch Video HERE: https://abcn.ws/2NCS7AH

Smoke plumes and an orange glow render the typically picturesque tree-lined view above hazy mountains into a nightmarish, apocalyptic scene. Shouts declaring "brush fire!," echo over radios.

Firefighters swarm a helicopter and fire helicopter pilot Desiree Horton prepares for liftoff.

"This is a dangerous job," Horton said. "You are putting your life at risk to save and help people."

Horton, the only female fire department helicopter pilot in California, knows she plays a vital role fighting the wildfires.

"The aircraft is trying to slow [the fire] and get the guys on the ground to put the line in and just stop it dead in its tracks," she said.

ABC News

Desiree Horton is one of few women who work as a firefighting helicopter pilot in California.

While there are over 320,000 firefighters nationwide, only 4% are women, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

"Obviously I'm the only female, but I don't see it that way when I'm out there working," Horton explained. "I'm just like everyone else doing the same job."

As the only female, she had to wear male flight suits since they did not have any for women. Horton, who has been flying since the age of 19, said the job can be tough since her voice is recognizable among the male voices.

"It's harder for me because everyone knows who I am."

ABC News

Desiree Horton is the only woman working as a firefighting helicopter pilot in California.

Horton credits her achievement to her work ethic and supportive men in her field.

"There were no other women out there doing what I was doing, that I knew of," said Horton. "I was able to prove myself and kind of kick butt out there."

Nearly 200,000 acres and over 6,000 fires have burned in California this year, decimating over 700 structures throughout the state.

Source: https://abcnews.go.com/US/female-fire-helicopter-pilot-californias-front-line-attack/