Air Station San Francisco

• Established in 1941: Coast Guard Air Station San Francisco was officially commissioned on February 15, 1941, making it one of the oldest Coast Guard air stations on the West Coast. • World War II Service: During World War II, the station played a vital role in coastal patrols, search and rescue, and anti-submarine operations along the Pacific coastline. • Original Location: The air station was originally located at the Mills Field Municipal Airport, which would later become San Francisco International Airport (SFO). • First Aircraft: The first aircraft assigned to the unit were the Hall PH-2 seaplanes, which were capable of both water and land operations. • Rescue Missions: Over the decades, the air station has conducted thousands of search and rescue missions, saving countless lives in the treacherous waters of the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. • Modern Aircraft: Today, the station primarily operates the MH-65 Dolphin helicopter, known for its versatility and effectiveness in maritime search and rescue operations. • Influence in Aviation History: Air Station San Francisco was among the first units to experiment with helicopter search and rescue techniques, pioneering methods now standard across the Coast Guard. • Bay Area Icon: The sight of orange-and-white Coast Guard helicopters flying over the Golden Gate Bridge or Alcatraz Island is a familiar symbol of safety for Bay Area residents and mariners. • Notable Missions: The Air Station has responded to high-profile incidents, including the rescue of passengers from the SS Prinsendam fire in 1980 and responses to major earthquakes and maritime disasters. • Community Outreach: In addition to operational duties, Air Station San Francisco regularly participates in community events, air shows, and public education about water safety and Coast Guard missions.