Sat, 25 Jan 2025

Aerial firefighting companies' new challenge: Keeping up with demand

Aerial firefighting companies supplement federal and state firefighting fleets, and their services are in high demand.
1. Growing Demand: The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have highlighted the need for effective and efficient aerial firefighting services. 2. Aerial Firefighting Companies: Companies like 10 Tanker, Bridger Aerospace, and Aero Air are providing air tankers to fight fires. These companies have reported increased revenue due to the growing demand. 3. Development of New Aircraft: The development of new aircraft designed for aerial firefighting is underway. De Havilland's new generation of water scoopers, the DHC-515, is expected to enter operations in 2028. 4. Challenges: The article highlights some challenges faced by these companies, including the difficulty of converting a jet into an air tanker and the need for specially trained pilots. 5. Increased Demand: The article concludes that the demand for aerial firefighting services will continue to increase due to climate change and the growing number of wildfires. Here are some key statistics mentioned in the article:
* 273,000 gallons: The amount of fire retardant dropped by 10 Tanker's planes on the Eaton and Palisades fires.
* $95 million: The increased revenue estimate for Bridger Aerospace for the year.
* 30: The number of years that some pilots have been working in aerial firefighting. Overall, the article provides an overview of the growing demand for aerial firefighting services and the challenges faced by companies providing these services.
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