About this Unit
Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point, located on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, was established in 1945 to support maritime patrol and search and rescue operations throughout the Pacific. The unit has played a critical role in safeguarding the Hawaiian Islands and surrounding waters, conducting missions such as law enforcement, environmental protection, and disaster response. Over the years, the air station has operated various aircraft, including the HC-130 Hercules and the MH-65 Dolphin helicopter, enhancing its reach and response capabilities. Today, Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point remains a vital asset in Pacific Region operations, exemplifying dedication to maritime safety and security.
Historical Facts
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Established in 1945: Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point was officially commissioned in 1945, initially operating out of Naval Air Station Kaneohe Bay before moving to its current location on Oahu’s southwest coast.
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Strategic Location: Barbers Point serves as the primary Coast Guard aviation facility for the Central Pacific, covering an area as far west as Midway Atoll and as far south as American Samoa.
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Multi-Mission Operations: The unit carries out a wide array of missions, including search and rescue (SAR), maritime law enforcement, environmental protection, and aids to navigation.
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Aircraft Fleet: The air station operates MH-65 Dolphin helicopters and HC-130J Super Hercules fixed-wing aircraft, capable of long-range patrols and rescues.
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High-Profile Rescues: Barbers Point crews have performed dramatic rescues, including the 2008 rescue of the crew from the fishing vessel "Princess Hawaii" over 1,000 miles from Oahu – one of the furthest rescues in USCG history.
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Role in Natural Disasters: The air station has played a key role in disaster response, providing aid and evacuation during events like Hurricane Iniki (1992) and after tsunamis affecting Pacific islands.
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International Cooperation: Barbers Point often coordinates with partners in the Pacific Rim, including the Japan Coast Guard and Pacific Island nations, for joint search and rescue missions and maritime patrols.
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Support for NASA Missions: In the 1960s and 1970s, Barbers Point aircraft supported NASA recovery operations for Apollo missions, standing by to assist with astronaut recovery in the Pacific.
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Environmental Stewardship: The unit is active in protecting Hawaii’s unique environment, participating in responses to marine pollution, hazardous materials spills, and wildlife rescues.
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Community Engagement: Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point regularly participates in local outreach, hosting open houses, school visits, and demonstrations to foster relationships with Hawaii’s diverse communities.
