Super-scoopers, helitanker are here and ready for fire season

by Timothy Rutt

 

LA County Fire Chief Daryl Osby, Québec Government Representative Alain Houde, Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich

On the fourth year anniversary of the Station Fire, three firefighting aircraft are now on duty in Los Angeles County, prepared for the fire season.

 

According to a press release from County Supervisor Michael Antonovich, two Super Scoopers have been leased from Quebec, Canada, and a Helitanker from Erickson Air-Crane, and will be available in the event of wildfires.

“When the Santa Ana winds begin to blow across the region, wildfires can become deadly,  as we have seen in previous extreme fire seasons,” said Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich.  “The Super Scoopers and the Helitanker provide a ‘one-two punch’ in addition to County Fire’s own aerial fleet – powerful tools to protect life and property.”

The fixed wing super-scoopers are contracted for 90 days at a cost of $2.75 million, according to the release.  Capable of carrying up to 1,620 gallons of water, Super Scoopers can also scoop water from a lake in only 12 seconds, be airborne in as little as five minutes and fly three hours before refueling.  The Erickson Air-Crane Type I Helitanker is capable of delivering 2,500 gallons per drop.