SAN DIEGO -- Mayor Dick Murphy Wednesday released the results of an aerial fire resources study that concluded the San Diego region needs three permanent firefighting helicopters.

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The region currently has one firefighting chopper.

"This initial report clarifies the need for aerial support not only for fire fighting but for numerous life safety missions in the region," said Murphy.

The city-commissioned report, the first of two, was prepared by aviation consultants Conklin & de Decker Associates, Inc., with input from members of the San Diego County Fire Chiefs Association and public safety agencies from across the county and Southern California.

The cost to acquire and operate three helicopters would range between $3.6 million and $7.6 million annually, the report said. The estimates do not include costs associated with public safety personnel, administration and overhead.

A second phase of this study, which will explore funding options, is scheduled to begin immediately.

Murphy has asked City Manager Michael Uberuaga to work with the county, incorporated cities and the existing oversight committees for the Regional Fire and Rescue Helicopter Program to identify funding options.

"The city will continue to fund the only fire helicopter in the region until we have a permanent regional program in place," Murphy said. "We look forward to working with other cities in the region and the county in funding a new helicopter program."

The follow up study will also research and make recommendations about site selection, maintenance, pilots, program administration and oversight.