Fort McMurray Fires
 

Anyone flying on the fires there?
I see in the news Coulson's are sending a S-61.

There are a number of fixed and rotary wing types involved, according to Canadian press reports. Still, one has to wonder how much airdrops help against a 2000 square km size fire.

Last report I saw mentioned roughly 150 helicopters operating in the area.... wowzers!

I saw a poor lonely AStar with a bucket on.

Phil

Some operators with pilots already time-xing are going to the bottom of the barrel - even considering laid off offshore pilots providing they have some bush experience history. Soft landing, though no Marriott points.

Will there be a swimming pool? How's the onshore rig food compared to offshore rig food?

Stupid reply...

Based on news reports, companies supporting the effort include:

• Coulson
• Delta Helicopters
• Helicopter Transport Services Canada
• Highland Helicopters
• Mustang Helicopters
• Hélicoptères Panorama
• Phoenix Heli-Flight (Feature article here)
• Vortex Helicopters
• Wood Buffalo Helicopters

The DND/RCAF is also providing assistance, both in terms of CH-146 SAR support and the deployment of their new CH-147Fs for logistical support.

(Click for full-size images)

http://i.imgur.com/OzFUuoY.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/ETSXoiC.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/5UaRcRD.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/khfHRdK.png

http://i.imgur.com/y3svjnb.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/rJw9KVW.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/YplxBY2.jpg

Even Mr. Leonardo-Finmeccanica DiCaprio has visited Fort McMurray to see the devastation first hand:

http://i.imgur.com/PcyoIfZ.png

I/C