Forest Service Inaction Continues To Delay Airtanker Fleet Modernization

And while this may result in higher contract availability and flight rates, those costs, said Eversole, will be offset by reduced downtime and lower maintenance costs, along with greater efficiencies in the delivery of fire retardant due to higher capacity--3,000-4,000 gallon--tanks and faster transit times.

"We are trying to work with the Forest Service toward a shared goal, which is to phase out the Post-World War II era aircraft used today for aerial firefighting," Eversole added, "But the time for action on this is now."

The American Helicopter Services and Aerial Firefighting Association (AHSAFA) is the Washington, DC-based trade association representing the commercial operators of helicopters and fixed wing aircraft engaged in aerial wildland firefighting.

Media Contact: Tom Eversole American Helicopter Services & Aerial Firefighting Association, 703040904355, teversole@ahsafa.org 

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SOURCE American Helicopter Services & Aerial Firefighting Association