The County of Los Angeles Fire Department (LACoFD) has revealed the recent appointment of Benjamin Berman as Chief of Air Operations effective July 14 2025.
Chief Berman will oversee the administrative and technical operations of the Department’s aviation program.
The LACoFD has shared how Chief Berman brings 27 years of aviation operations, sustainment and logistics program experience to the LACoFD.
Throughout his career, he has been responsible for both large-scale rotary wing and fixed wing resources, has served as the Helicopter Program Manager/Chief Pilot for CAL FIRE.
Additionally, he held a variety of leadership positions in the United States (US) Coast Guard that included Chief Sustainment Officer for the H-60 and C-130 programs, Aeronautical Engineering Officer, Functional Check Pilot and Flight and Crew Chief Instructor.
Chief Berman commented: “As Chief of Air Operations for the County of Los Angeles Fire Department, I hold our mission to the highest standard of effectiveness, efficiency and safety.
“Our Air Operations Section maintains a proactive stance, ensuring that our aerial resources and support systems are intentionally biased to act.”
Chief Berman holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Health Sciences and is currently finishing his PhD in Aviation with a concentration on Safety Management. He is also a graduate of the US Coast Guard Aeronautical Engineering Advance Education Program, the US Defense Acquisitions Program and the US Navy Flight School.
Chief Berman continued: “By leveraging the latest aviation management, safety, sustainment and operational principles – we deliver world-class aerial firefighting, medical evacuation and rescue services to the residents of Los Angeles County with unwavering commitment.”
The LACoFD has revealed the recent appointment of Benjamin Berman as Chief of Air Operations effective July 14 2025.
