bases. The helios use a Bambi bucket, dipping water from lakes and reservoirs. Sometimes, a heli-tank is used and filled with pumps. Each base has a 200,000 liter water reservoir with fuel tanks mounted on trucks and living quarters for the pilots and ground crew. It is necessary for the pilot that is on duty to stay near the aircraft. He is required to be in the air within seven minutes of the fire call. Each forestry client has an operations center with watch towers strategically placed in the forests. When a fire is spotted, the pilot is called directly and given the coordinates. The client decides if the pilot uses water or foam, depending on the size of the fire. If the fire is large enough, the client will require the use of a retardant. The type of aircraft used depends on where the fire is located, using the aircraft that is the closest. Each aircraft is tracked in real time by FAASA using GPS and cell phone connectivity. Managing over 65 aircraft from more than 75 bases of operation in two countries can no doubt be challenging. Grupo FAASA’s Spain and Chile operations have been doing it successfully for many years. It recognized the need for aerial fire protection decades ago and has since grown into one of the world’s leading aerial firefighting companies. FAASA Chile based at Concepcion, operates form a modern facility.
Introducing...
Turbine Installation, LLC
M A R K E T P L A C E many items to choose from
5017 Aviation Way Caldwell, ID 83605
208-455-9350
www.turbinesllc.com tim@turbinesllc.com
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Air Tractor AT-802 Powered by Honeywell TPE331-14GR 1650 SHP 4500 HSI/9000 CAM June 2013
A-17