What kinds of aircraft are used in fire suppression activities?
Helicopters – In a typical year, there are 15-20 “heavy” and “medium” helicopters under contract in the United States for wildland firefighting purposes. Also, there are an additional 175 under contract on a “call when needed” basis. Helicopters support firefighters on the ground by dropping water, foam or retardant on flaming trees, brush and even structures to cool hot spots and prevent a fire from spreading. Airtankers – Airtankers are large planes fitted with tanks for transporting and dropping fire retardant or water. Their capability ranges from 2,000 gallons to the larger aircraft that are capable of delivering 3,000 gallons. Airtankers drop their load in a long string, creating a line of retardant. The purpose of the retardant is to slow the fire down in order to give ground support forces the opportunity to build firelines. A pink dye is added to give the pilot an idea of where the drop landed. In a typical year, 40-50 airtankers are under contract to state and federal agencie
Helicopters – In a typical year, there are 15-20 “heavy” and “medium” helicopters under contract in the United States for wildland firefighting purposes. Also, there are an additional 175 under contract on a “call when needed” basis. Helicopters support firefighters on the ground by dropping water, foam or retardant on flaming trees, brush and even structures to cool hot spots and prevent a fire from spreading. Air tankers – Air tankers are large planes fitted with tanks for transporting and dropping fire retardant or water. Their capability ranges from 2,000 gallons to the larger aircraft that are capable of delivering 3,000 gallons. Air tankers drop their load in a long string, creating a line of retardant. The purpose of the retardant is to slow the fire down in order to give ground support forces the opportunity to build firelines. A pink dye is added to give the pilot an idea of where the drop landed. In a typical year, 40-50 air tankers are under contract to state and federal age
