The U.S. Forest Service deploys a diverse fleet of aircraft to effectively manage wildland fires. While some of these planes are owned by the Forest Service, many others are leased or contracted. During peak fire activity, even military aircraft can be called into action. When not engaged in firefighting, these versatile aircraft perform other crucial natural resource management tasks, such as conducting aerial surveys of wildlife populations and forest health. This extensive aerial fire fighting tanker aircraft fleet includes specialized types designed for specific roles.
Types of Aircraft in Wildland Fire Operations
Various aircraft are utilized, each bringing unique capabilities to the fight against wildland blazes. Understanding these roles highlights the complexity of aerial firefighting and the specific strengths of different airframes, including the powerful DC-10.
Single Engine Airtankers (SEAT)
Single Engine Airtankers (SEATs) serve as agile assets in initial attack and support roles. These smaller aircraft can deliver up to 800 gallons of fire retardant. Their size allows them to operate from smaller airfields and reload quickly in areas inaccessible to larger airtankers, providing crucial support to ground crews. A common type used is the Air Tractor AT-802.
Large Airtankers
Large Airtankers (LATs) form the backbone of aerial retardant delivery, capable of dropping between 2,000 and 4,000 gallons. These aircraft provide significant coverage to slow fire spread and protect critical infrastructure. Types include the P2V, HC-130H, BAe-146, MD-87, C-130Q, RJ85, and C-130 H & J models equipped with Modular Airborne Fire Fighting Systems (MAFFS).
BAe-146 airtanker drops fire retardant on a wildland fire
Very Large Airtankers (VLAT)
At the pinnacle of the airtanker hierarchy are Very Large Airtankers (VLATs). These giants are designed for massive retardant drops, delivering over 8,000 gallons in a single pass. The most prominent example of a VLAT in use as a Dc 10 Fire Fighting Aircraft is the modified McDonnell Douglas DC-10. Its immense capacity makes it invaluable for establishing large, strategic retardant lines to contain large-scale wildfires, significantly impacting the fight against major blazes.
Water Scoopers
Water Scoopers are amphibious aircraft specifically designed for operations near water sources. These planes can skim the surface of lakes, rivers, or reservoirs to rapidly fill onboard tanks with water and then deliver it directly onto a fire. This quick turnaround capability makes them highly effective, especially in areas with abundant water. Examples include the Bombardier CL-415 and the Air Tractor Fire Boss.
Water scooper aircraft skimming water from a lake
Smokejumper Aircraft
Smokejumper aircraft play a critical role in rapid initial attack on remote fires. They deploy specialized wildland firefighters, known as smokejumpers, along with their initial gear supply via parachute directly to the fire line. Each aircraft can typically carry eight to ten smokejumpers and their equipment. Common types are the DeHavilland DH-6 300 series Twin Otter, Shorts Sherpa C-23A and SD3-60, Dornier 228, and CASA 212.
Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), or drones, offer significant potential for wildland fire management and natural resource tasks, including mapping, reconnaissance, and infrared scanning. However, unauthorized public UAS flights near wildfires pose a severe safety threat to piloted firefighting aircraft and ground personnel. Public awareness campaigns like “know before you fly” encourage safe drone operation away from active fire zones.
Unmanned aerial system (UAS) used in wildland fire management
Aerial Supervision Module/Lead Plane
Aerial supervision modules, often using lead planes, are essential for coordinating airtanker operations safely and effectively. Pilots or air tactical supervisors in these aircraft communicate with ground firefighters, other aerial assets, and airtanker pilots. They drop white smoke to mark the precise location for retardant drops, guiding the airtankers. Aircraft types frequently used include the Beechcraft King Air 90 and Beechcraft King Air 200.
Air Attack
Air tactical or air attack planes provide critical airborne command and control over wildland fires. They act as the “eyes in the sky,” coordinating all aerial firefighting aircraft and providing vital real-time intelligence to ground crews. Their role is paramount in ensuring the safety and efficiency of aviation operations in complex wildfire environments. The Twin Commander 500 and 600 series are commonly used for this role.
Resource Management Aircraft
Beyond direct firefighting, the Forest Service utilizes various aircraft for broader natural resource management missions. These include surveys for forest health and wildlife populations, law enforcement support, gathering infrared data, fire detection patrols, and transporting personnel and cargo to remote locations. Aircraft types serving these diverse functions include the Cessna 206, Aero Commander 500, King Air 200, DeHavilland DHC-2 Beaver, Piper Super Cub, and Cessna 185.
In conclusion, the fight against wildland fires relies on a specialized and varied fleet of aircraft. From agile SEATs and strategic LATs to the immense capacity of Very Large Airtankers like the Dc 10 Fire Fighting Aircraft, each type plays a vital role in protecting forests and communities. These aerial assets, supported by reconnaissance, supervision, and logistical aircraft, represent a critical component of modern fire management strategies.
