Helicopter Fire-fighting (Merged threads)
I see in the Press that the number of Fire Department helicopters in the US is increasing - perhaps not surprising in light of recent events.
Honolulu Fire Department Gains Second Helicopter
Honolulu Fire Department has replaced it's backup helicopter which was destroyed in a fatal crash in 1995. The new Air Two, a 1992 NOTAR MD-520, will be housed with Air One at the Honolulu Airport.
And San Diego gets its first
San Diego Fire Department hopes to have a the Bell 212 HP operational by August 3 - just in time for a potentially explosive fire season.
Los Angeles County has 16 firefighting helicopters and Orange County has 3. San Diego has been relying on federal helicopters which are delayed because they are not based in the County.
A private company will operate the aircraft.
Have any Rotorheads got experience of this type of work?
Please tell us about it.
Techniques for loading water, and fighting the fires?
Special considerations, particular problems, dangers etc