Aviation - US Forest Service
The Forest Service uses a variety of aircraft and helicopters to help manage wildfires. Planes and helicopters are critical tools in managing wildland fire. Although aircraft are often used to fight wildfires, aircraft alone cannot put them out.
Planes - US Forest Service
Single Engine Airtankers (SEATs) can deliver up to 800 gallons of fire retardant to support firefighters on the ground. These small airplanes can reload and operate in areas where larger airtankers cannot. Aircraft types: Air Tractor AT-802.
Aviation Program - CAL FIRE
CAL FIRE's Aviation Program is vital in firefighting efforts. Utilizing a fleet of air tankers, helicopters, and uncrewed aerial systems, the program enhances firefighting capabilities, improves situational awareness, and supports ground crews in efficiently battling wildfires.
Airtankers - National Interagency Fire Center
The DC-10, which can be used to support wildland firefighters on the ground, can deliver up to 9,400 gallons of fire retardant at one time. The U.S. Forest Service is responsible for managing the VLAT contracts.
Preparing for Wildfires | Aviation - Texas A&M University
Helicopters and airtankers help support firefighters on the ground in their efforts to contain a wildfire. All firefighting aircraft in Texas follows strict state and federal guidelines for safety, operation, training and equipment.
Aerial Firefighters & Fire Fighting - Much Needed Support
Contrary to popular opinion, the goal of aerial firefighting is not to put out the fire directly. Rather, aircraft provide support to the ground crew. When a large plane dumps a cloud of red retardant at the site of a forest fire, it helps build a fireline around the flames.
AIR SUPPORT BASES 21 Temporary helicopter bases are established close to a large wildfire to drop water and transport personnel, equipment and supplies. Air Tanker bases support firefighting operations by supplying airtankers with fire suppressants. Airtankers normally transit between tanker bases and fires at low altitudes.
U.S. Forest Service Contracting | US Forest Service
The Aviation Branch supports the acquisition of Airtankers, Helicopters, Light Fixed Wing Aircraft, Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS) maintenance, Large Jet Transport and related aviation support including aircraft maintenance, consulting, aircraft purchase, contract pilots and aircraft equipment.
Tactical Aircraft - National Interagency Fire Center
Air attack assists with locating the fire and access points for ground crews, retardant deployment, and performs aerial reconnaissance of the overall incident. The ATGS coordinates all aircraft in the airspace above a wildland fire. Wildland fire managers use a variety of tactical aircraft to provide support to wildland firefighters on the ground.
Military aircraft equipped with Modular Airborne Firefighting …
Boise, Idaho, January 10, 2025 – The Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service has activated eight Department of Defense C-130 aircraft equipped with MAFFS to assist with battling wildfires in Southern California. Two aircraft from the California Air National Guard’s 146th Airlift Wing, are operating out of Channel Islands Air National Guard Station in support of fire suppression efforts.