Fighting Infernos: The Rise of Private Aerial Firefighting Fleets
As wildfires ravage the globe, private companies are stepping up to provide critical air support to combat these devastating blazes. In the United States, companies like 10 Tanker Air Carrier and Bridger Aerospace are leading the charge, deploying specially outfitted aircraft to drop fire retardant and water on raging fires.
The Growing Demand for Aerial Firefighting
The wildfire season, typically from April to November, is becoming increasingly unpredictable. With climate change exacerbating the severity and frequency of wildfires, the demand for aerial firefighting services is skyrocketing. In 2023, the U.S. Forest Service extended a 10-year contract worth up to $7.2 billion to five private providers, including 10 Tanker and Bridger Aerospace.
Meeting the Challenge
Companies like 10 Tanker and Bridger Aerospace are working around the clock to meet the growing demand. Joel Kerley, CEO of 10 Tanker, notes that his company has a fleet of four converted DC-10 aircraft, known as very large air tankers (VLATs), which can drop up to 9,500 gallons of fire retardant. Bridger Aerospace, on the other hand, operates a fleet of Canada-made Super Scoopers, which can scoop up 1,600 gallons of water from nearby bodies of water.
The Complexity of Aerial Firefighting
Aerial firefighting is a highly specialized and complex operation. Pilots must navigate treacherous terrain, dropping water or fire retardant in front of fires to block their path. The challenge is further complicated by natural forces like hurricane-force winds, which can ground planes and spread fires rapidly.
The Human Factor
Behind the scenes, specially trained pilots and mechanics work tirelessly to keep these aircraft airborne. 10 Tanker’s Kerley notes that his pilots come from diverse backgrounds, including military and passenger airlines. With ages spanning decades, these pilots are an “odd duck” in terms of careers.
The Future of Aerial Firefighting
As the demand for aerial firefighting services continues to rise, companies are investing in new technology and aircraft. De Havilland Aircraft, the manufacturer of the Super Scoopers, is developing a new generation of aircraft, the DHC-515, which is expected to enter operations in 2028. With improved features like cockpit air conditioning and anti-corrosion, these new aircraft will be better equipped to tackle the challenges of aerial firefighting.
A New Era of Cooperation
In the face of growing wildfires, governments and private companies are working together to combat this global threat. As Neil Sweeney, vice president of corporate affairs at De Havilland, notes, “What was considered an off-season no longer really exists.” The future of aerial firefighting will require continued innovation, cooperation, and investment to meet the rising demand for these critical services.
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