AIR STATION MIAMI

• Oldest Coast Guard Air Station: Air Station Miami is one of the oldest Coast Guard air stations, established in 1932, originally at Dinner Key in Biscayne Bay, making it a pioneer in maritime aviation. • World War II Contributions: During WWII, Air Station Miami played a crucial role in anti-submarine operations and search and rescue missions, helping to protect Allied shipping from German U-boats in the Atlantic and Caribbean. • Cuban Exodus Support: The unit was pivotal during the Mariel boatlift in 1980, providing aerial surveillance and rescue for thousands of Cuban refugees crossing the Florida Straits. • Modern Relocation: The original station at Dinner Key moved in 1965 to the Opa-locka Airport (Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport), where it currently operates, allowing for expanded facilities and aircraft. • Hurricane Response: Air Station Miami has been central in disaster relief, notably after major hurricanes such as Andrew (1992), Katrina (2005), and Irma (2017), conducting rescues and delivering humanitarian aid. • Drug Interdiction: The station is a key player in counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific, supporting the interdiction of illegal drug shipments bound for the United States. • International Cooperation: Air Station Miami frequently works with foreign partners and agencies like the Royal Bahamas Defence Force, furthering joint training and operational missions across the Caribbean. • Aircraft Evolution: Over its history, the unit has operated a variety of aircraft, from the Grumman JF-2 Duck and Sikorsky helicopters to the modern HC-144 Ocean Sentry and MH-65 Dolphin helicopters. • High Operational Tempo: The station is one of the busiest in the Coast Guard, conducting thousands of search and rescue, law enforcement, and patrol missions each year across a vast area of responsibility. • Distinguished Unit Citations: Air Station Miami and its crews have received numerous commendations and awards for heroism and excellence, reflecting a proud legacy of service and sacrifice.