(haipo) The "Elad" Squadron, Israel's aerial firefighting unit (Unit 249), held an operational exercise today (Wednesday, April 29, 2026) at Haifa Airport, as part of preparations for the fire season and improving operational readiness in the north. The exercise tested the unit's ability to operate quickly and effectively in an active civilian environment, a scenario central to its work.
"Elad" Squadron – established following the Carmel disaster and named after the late Elad Rivan
The "Elad" Squadron was established in 2010 following the Carmel disaster, and was named after the late Elad Rivan, a 16-year-old firefighter who perished in the fire. The squadron was defined as a national life-saving resource, and has since become one of the State of Israel's main tools in dealing with huge fires. The establishment of the squadron was a government decision in January 2011, which assigned the Air Force the professional guidance and the Ministry of Defense the establishment. In 2016, the squadron was transferred to the responsibility of the Israel Police's air force, and it operates in full cooperation with the Fire and Rescue Authority.
Unit capabilities: 14 Air Tractor aircraft and nationwide deployment
The 249th Air Firefighting Unit operates approximately 14 Air Tractor aircraft, which are capable of carrying approximately 3,000 liters of water or fire retardant per sortie and staying in the air for approximately three hours without refueling. Since its establishment, the squadron has carried out extensive operational activity, including handling more than 500 fires, approximately 4,600 sorties, and approximately 2,500 flight hours. In addition, the squadron assisted in extinguishing fires as part of international aid in Cyprus and Jordan.
A national asset that continues to develop
The "Elad" squadron is considered one of the most important tools in protecting human life, property and nature in Israel. The combination of advanced technology, skilled teams and nationwide deployment allows it to provide a quick and effective response, even in complex events. The exercise held today at Haifa Airport emphasizes the importance of the squadron and the need for continued investment in the equipment, infrastructure and manpower that operates it.
