FireXpert Solutions’ Post

🔥Firehawk: Transforming the Black Hawk for Aerial Firefighting 🚁 Nothing like a good Firehawk video clip to show its power in action! 🎥 The Firehawk is a specialized adaptation of the iconic Black Hawk helicopter, engineered to tackle the toughest wildfires. Utilized by agencies like the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the Firehawk is a game-changer in aerial firefighting. Here’s what makes it stand out: • 💦 Massive Water Capacity: Equipped with a 1,000-gallon water tank, the Firehawk can deliver powerful payloads of water or fire suppressant to critical areas. • ⚙️ Versatile Cabin Configuration: Designed for quick reconfiguration, it can handle search and rescue missions or medical transport, even while carrying the water tank. • 🌬️ Enhanced Performance: Built on the Black Hawk’s military-grade airframe, the Firehawk thrives in challenging conditions like high winds, thick smoke, and even night operations. These enhancements make the Firehawk an indispensable tool for wildfire management, enabling fast response times and protecting lives, property, and natural resources. 🌲🔥 #Firehawk 🚁🔥 #AerialFirefighting 💦🌬️ #WildfireManagement 🌲🔥 #BlackHawkAdaptation ⚙️ #LACountyFire 🚒🚁 #InnovativeTechnology 🔧🌟 #FireSafety 🛡️💧 #GameChanger 💪🔥

How will advanced aerial resources improve safety and effectiveness in challenging wildfire conditions? Firehawk helicopters, designed for rapid wildfire suppression and the transport of firefighters, played a crucial role in combating the Franklin Fire in Malibu. Operated by the Ventura County Fire Department’s Aviation Unit, crews have been working around the clock since the fire ignited on Monday, quickly responding to the more than 4,000-acre blaze despite the challenges of night operations. Jeff Seabrook, a pilot with the County of Ventura Fire Aviation Unit, described the complexities of nighttime firefighting efforts: “We were working on structure protection around Pepperdine. To get there coming from the north, we are cresting over two ridges, not only at night, but now you can’t see the aircraft that are leaving Pepperdine as we're coming inbound to that area.” These two Sikorsky Firehawk helicopters, formerly Blackhawk helicopters used by the Army National Guard, joined the Ventura County Aviation Unit at the start of the 2021 fire season. Their agility, enhanced firefighting capabilities, and ability to operate in low-visibility conditions make them instrumental in reducing response times, protecting structures, and supporting ground crews as they battle intense and fast-moving fires. How do you think adding advanced firefighting aircraft like the Firehawks will influence future wildfire response strategies in difficult conditions? For more insights on our initiatives and offerings, visit our blog: https://lnkd.in/gJ8iag9F #VenturaCountyFire #FireHawk #WildfireResponse #AviationSafety #EmergencyServices #AerialFirefighting #NightOperations #FirefightingTechnology #Helicopters #DisasterResponse #CommunitySafety #AvfoilNews

Over 50 helicopters have at times been at the forefront of large-scale firefighting operations to combat the devastating wildfires sweeping through California.   The aerial firefighting fleet includes a diverse range of rotorcraft sourced from different nearby counties to bolster the effort, such as Chinooks, Blackhawks, Firehawks, AW139s among others. LCI Analytics have previously highlighted the growing demand and reliance on aerial firefighting resources as the fire season continues to lengthen, driven by changing climate conditions (https://lnkd.in/dUqpmkEe).  Lead times for new mission-specific aircraft are now extending over several years, making multi-role, repurposed and adapted aircraft increasingly vital in addressing short-term demand.    Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for bespoke analysis on market dynamics in this sector. #Rotorcraft #California #Chinook #Blackhawk #Firehawk #AW139

Since 2011, Israel's firefighting efforts have been revolutionized by the AT-802A/F Air Tractor, Inc., operated initially by the Israeli Air Force and now by the Israeli Police Aviation Unit. This fleet of fourteen robust AT-802s, stationed strategically at historic airfields like Kedma and Megiddo, plays a pivotal role in combating wildfires both locally and abroad. Formed in response to the tragic Mount Carmel forest fire in 2010, the 249th 'Elad' Aerial Firefighting Squadron was established under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Rami. Procured through a landmark USD 20 million contract with Elbit Systems Israel, these aircraft were swiftly integrated into operations, marking a new era in Israeli firefighting capabilities. The AT-802s, equipped to carry 3,100 liters of water or fire retardant, excel in rapid deployment and efficient fire containment, thanks to their powerful engines and quick refill capabilities at specially equipped airfields. They've been pivotal in extinguishing over 500 fires, with notable international deployments including Cyprus, where they aided significantly during the 2016 Troodos mountain wildfire, demonstrating their effectiveness beyond Israeli borders. In recent years, the fleet has faced new challenges, particularly combating wildfires sparked by arsonists, including attacks from airborne incendiary devices launched from Gaza. Despite these challenges, the AT-802s have maintained readiness, responding swiftly to protect communities across Israel. As we gear up for the upcoming fire season, the dedication of our team and the reliability of the AT-802 fleet stand as testament to our commitment to safeguarding lives and landscapes. Join us in commemorating our journey and exploring more about our operations on our blog. Read the full story on our blog. #AvfoilNews #AerialFirefighting #Israel #FireSafety #AT802 #WildfireManagement #CommunitySafety

In a remarkable display of international cooperation, Brazil has extended a helping hand to Colombia through the deployment of the Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS II). This effort is facilitated by the Força Aérea Brasileira - FAB, using an Embraer KC-390 Millenium aircraft to transport the equipment from Anápolis Air Base to Galeão Air Base. The MAFFS II system, capable of holding over 3,000 gallons of water or fire retardant, was installed on a Fuerza Aeroespacial Colombiana (FAC) Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules. This system allows for aerial firefighting without compromising the aircraft's performance, proving crucial as Colombia battles wildfires that have consumed over 44,500 acres of forest since November. The Colombian government is also enhancing its firefighting fleet with three Air Tractor, Inc. AT-802 aircraft, repurposed from their usual role in countering illegal agriculture, thanks to efforts by the Policia Nacional de Colombia. Additionally, Peru has contributed a firefighting system, further bolstering the regional response. This initiative highlights the pressing need for robust fire management solutions in the region, underscored by ongoing debates in the Colombian National Congress regarding the readiness of FAC's aircraft fleet. For more insights and details on this collaborative firefighting effort, visit our blog. #AvfoilNews #Brazil #Colombia #MAFFSII #Firefighting #FAB #Embraer #LockheedMartin #AirTractor #InternationalCooperation #EnvironmentalConservation

Firefighters have introduced a powerful new asset in their fight against the Vista Fire near Lytle Creek, north of Fontana. The USDA Forest Service is employing the Quick Reaction Force (QRF), operated by Coulson Aviation, to combat this fierce blaze. The QRF consists of three Boeing Chinook CH-47 helicopters, which have been converted into advanced helitankers. These helitankers are strategically positioned across Southern California, ready for rapid response to emerging and ongoing wildfires. Supporting the QRF is a fourth helicopter, a Sikorsky S-76, equipped with thermal and HD cameras and mapping software for precise fire perimeter and hotspot detection. Each CH-47 helitanker can carry up to 3,000 gallons of water or retardant, significantly surpassing the capacities of Sikorsky S70 Firehawks, which carry 1,000 gallons, and Bell 412s, which drop around 325 gallons per load. The QRF is also configured for night operations, with flight crews maintaining qualifications for night vision goggle use. On July 9, the QRF made a significant impact on the Vista Fire, dropping 60,000 gallons of water along the fire's edge. This action dramatically reduced heat and fire activity, enabling firefighters to more safely access the rugged terrain of the southern perimeter. "This dramatically reduced both heat and fire activity, which will allow today's firefighters to more safely access the steep, rugged terrain of the southern perimeter of the Vista Fire," stated the Forest Service in a news release. #AvfoilNews #CoulsonAviation #QuickReactionForce #Firefighting #USForestService #AviationInnovation #Helitankers #VistaFire #EmergencyResponse

🔥✈️ Killing the California Fires: Pilots and Air Crews Coming in Clutch at Low Altitude 🚁💦 The Iron Men of the sky❤️🔥👍🏻🔥❗️ 🔥✈️ In the battle against California’s relentless wildfires, a formidable aerial fleet is in action, showcasing the dedication and bravery of pilots and support crews. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) operates a diverse array of aircraft, including Grumman S-2T airtankers, Lockheed C-130H Hercules, and Sikorsky S-70i Firehawk helicopters, all playing pivotal roles in combating the flames. 🚁💦 🎯 These skilled pilots execute precise maneuvers, delivering thousands of gallons of water and retardant to contain the fires and protect communities. Their coordinated efforts with ground crews are crucial in managing the state’s wildfire crisis. 💪🏽🔥🌍 ⚠️ Recent incidents highlight the challenges they face. A Super Scooper plane was grounded after a collision with an unauthorized drone, underscoring the dangers posed by such interference. 🚨✈️ ⏳ As of January 11, 2025, containment efforts continue across multiple fire zones in California. The exact containment percentages and current locations of the fires are dynamic, with crews working tirelessly to manage and suppress the outbreaks. 🕊️🔥💦 🙌 The commitment and expertise of these pilots and their support teams are instrumental in safeguarding lives and property during this challenging time. 🛩️❤️👏 #CaliforniaFires 🔥 #FirefighterHeroes 💪🏽 #AerialSupport 🚁 #StaySafeCalifornia ❤️ #FirstResponders 🙌 #Teamwork 🎯 #FireSeason2025 🔥

Firefighting helicopters are a crucial tool in combating wildfires, especially in rugged or hard-to-access terrains. They are equipped to drop large amounts of water or fire retardants directly onto the fire or its perimeter. Here's how it works: 💧🌨️🌨️🌊Water Collection Buckets: Helicopters use buckets, like the "Bambi Bucket," that are suspended beneath the helicopter. These buckets can be filled from nearby water sources, such as lakes, rivers, or reservoirs. Tanks: Some helicopters are equipped with built-in tanks that can be filled quickly using a snorkel or pump system. #firefighter #firedepartment

#NationalFireNews: August 20, 2024. As of this morning, 59 large active wildfires are being managed with full suppression strategies nationwide. Current wildfires have burned 2,249,946 acres. Drone incursions over wildfires continue to rise. So far this year, 16 incursions were reported, and air operations were shut down eight times. When firefighting aircraft are grounded because of an unauthorized drone, our personnel lose access to a valuable resource which can affect the safety and efficiency of the overall suppression efforts. Flying a drone near a wildfire puts lives at risk. Please #KnowBeforeYouFly and help keep our wildland firefighters in the air and on the ground safe. 21,812 wildland firefighters and support personnel are assigned to wildfires, including 20 complex and 3 Type 1 incident management teams, 501 crews, 926 engines, 126 helicopters, and four Modular Airborne Fire Fighting Systems, or MAFFS. During #FireYear2024, 31,043 wildfires have burned 5.4 million acres. More than 26,600 wildfires were started by people and they burned 3.3 million acres. Lightning ignited about 4,300 wildfires, burning nearly 2.1 million acres. More NFN: https://lnkd.in/gTj5mZB #FireYear2024 📸 Photo from InciWeb on the #LimepointFire in Idaho.

Saab Aerial Firefighting operates primarily under a contract with the MSB (Myndigheten för samhällsskydd och beredskap), utilizing a fleet of four AT-802F Fire Boss fixed-wing scooper #aircraft stationed in #Nyköping. The choice of aircraft reflects Sweden's geography, with its abundance of lakes facilitating water access for firefighting. Responding to approximately 20 to 30 fires annually, #Saab also undertakes international missions as part of Sweden's contribution to the EU's #rescEU initiative. Constant readiness is essential for international dispatches, requiring Saab to closely monitor fire risks across #Europe. Saab's #aerialfirefighting team comprises pilots from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing #teamwork and adaptability. While Sweden's #wildfire risk may not match that of equatorial countries, long #summer days and potential #fire triggers like railroads pose unique challenges. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/eDy79MXW