A LARGE fleet of firefighting aircraft are stationed at regional airports across northeast Victoria.
Currently at Shepparton Airport, a Firebird 327, Airbus AS350 B3 Squirrel is on site to respond to emergencies. This single engine helicopter is predominantly used for firebombing and is equipped with a 1,100L tank that can be refilled in the hover in about 45 seconds.
There are various aircraft with firefighting abilities stationed across the northeast, in Mangalore, Albury, Benalla, Mansfield, and Ovens.
The aircraft will be used by Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic), Country Fire Authority (CFA) and Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) to respond to fires and other emergencies.
FFMVic deputy chief fire officer Aaron Kennedy said aircraft play a critical role when responding to fires.
“On high fire danger days, as soon as the call goes out to respond, firebombing aircraft will be dispatched so we can hit fires hard and fast and keep them small,” Mr Kennedy said.
“Northeast Victoria is one of the most fire prone areas in the world and this impressive aircraft fleet will work together to deliver an effective fire suppression operation.”
“Aircraft work hand-in-hand with firefighters to contain fires both on private property and public land.”
“Dispatching the aircraft with ground crews, fire trucks and bulldozers increases our ability to rapidly contain or limit the size and spread of fires.”
“This helps keep communities, and the environment, safe,” said Mr Kennedy.
Aircraft have already played a key role during the recent flood response with more than 1,800 aircraft movements since October 1, 2022, transporting resources and surveying affected areas.
