Amphibious aircraft lead the charge in California wildfires
In California, the struggle against destructive wildfires persists. Amphibious aircraft, helicopters, and specialised planes are aiding efforts by dropping water and flame retardants on burning areas. Among them are machines like CH-47 Chinook helicopters, C-130 Hercules transport planes, and Canadair CL-415 Super Scooper amphibious aircraft sent by Canada.
Various aircraft are utilised in firefighting operations, such as air tankers, helicopters with water-dropping systems, and amphibious planes capable of scooping water from nearby reservoirs. These machines can access areas beyond the reach of firefighters and traditional firefighting equipment. Their operation can be observed in California, where over 30 helicopters and planes of various types have been deployed to combat the blaze. Some of them scoop water from the Pacific Ocean, as seen in the recording below:
Aircraft fighting fires in California
The C-130 Hercules transport planes, belonging to the United States Air Force, are equipped with the MAFFS (Modular Airborne FireFighting System) module, allowing for rapid conversion into firefighting air tankers. The MAFFS system enables the release of up to 14,500 litres of water or fire retardant in seconds, effectively suppressing large fire fronts. Tanks are filled on the ground, and discharge is executed through rear ramps. This solution provides precision and the ability to operate in hard-to-reach areas.
The CH-47 Chinook helicopters, primarily known for their military transport applications, are also extensively used in firefighting. Equipped with Bambi Bucket sling tanks, they can carry 8,200 to 11,800 litres of water depending on the version and specifications. These tanks can be rapidly filled with water from lakes, rivers, or other bodies thanks to a built-in suction system. The use of Chinooks is especially beneficial in challenging mountainous terrain, where their ability to operate at high altitudes and stable flight is crucial.
The CL-415 Super Scooper amphibious aircraft are true specialists among planes used for firefighting. They were specifically designed for battling fires and can scoop water directly from the surface of water bodies during flight. With a special suction system, they can refill their 7,300-litre tanks in just 12 seconds while flying over a lake or the sea. Their design allows for repeated scooping in a short period, significantly increasing firefighting efficiency. Additionally, CL-415s are extremely manoeuvrable and can operate close to the fire.
