High Performance Helicopters marks 20 years in specialized aviation and firefighting

High Performance Helicopters (HP Helicopters) is celebrating its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of growth in heavy lift, utility, and aerial firefighting operations.

Founded in 2005, the California-based operator has grown into a nationally recognized leader in complex helicopter missions, known for its diverse fleet, mobile maintenance units, and a strong safety culture.

Aerial firefighting remains a core mission area. The company maintains longstanding state and federal contracts, supporting wildfire suppression across the western USA with its type-certified UH-60 Blackhawks, each capable of delivering up to 1,100 gallons of water per drop. The Bell medium series and Agusta 119 helicopters also support firefighting, offering smaller but highly flexible capabilities for rapid response in challenging terrain.

“High Performance Helicopters has always been the type of company that finds solutions to our clients’ most difficult problems,” said Brad Bauder, President and CEO. “When cranes can't reach a location and humans have difficulty accessing a job site, we solve it with helicopters. That problem-solving mentality has driven our growth for 20 years and continues to open new opportunities as we look toward the future.”

Alongside firefighting, HP’s expertise spans remote construction, powerline and utility support, offshore operations, and aerospace research. Its human external cargo (HEC) competencies enable safe transport of crews into remote or otherwise inaccessible worksites.

The operator is currently supporting the Grand Canyon National Park water pipeline project, one of its most complex undertakings, requiring a remote aircraft base camp and custom logistical support.

General Manager Nicholas Clesceri credited the people behind the company’s success: “I’m incredibly proud of the exceptional team of absolute professionals we've assembled over the past 20 years – our pilots, mechanics, ground personnel, and support staff. This team elevates our safety culture and contributes to our longevity in this demanding industry.”

Demand for firefighting helicopters has grown, as a result, CAL FIRE recently added two more Firehawks to its fleet.