![endless sky kestrel endless sky kestrel](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/uLpC138HJ5c/maxresdefault.jpg)
![endless sky kestrel endless sky kestrel](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/dpaxRO4umRQ/hqdefault.jpg)
Kestrel and Erickson Incorporated continue the strong relationship with the mobilisation of a high performance S-64F model fitted with Erickson's innovative Composite Main Rotor Blades (CMRB). Their reliability and outstanding performance under the tough Australian conditions has made them synonymous with aerial firefighting in Australia, often collectively referred to as the "Elvis" (N179AC) helicopter thanks in part to the important role that particular aircraft played in saving the lives of 14 firefighters in the Burragorang Valley in NSW during the 2001/2002 fire season. Since 1997, the iconic Erickson S-64 Air Crane® helicopter has played an important part in Australia's aerial firefighting capability. Fitted with a winch and dual rappel hooks, the aircraft provides a true-multi role platform for Australian emergency service agencies.Ī number of thanks must be made, including our partners in the Victorian fire agencies/NAFC, our regulator Civil Aviation Safety Authority - CASA, and our good mates at Coldstream Helicopters Ltd, but most importantly to our entire Kestrel team that made this important milestone possible.Įrickson 21 Years in Australia, S- Fire Season | Erickson Inc. Operating with a belly tank with Sk圜annon, FIRECAT is also equipped with a 4,000-litre Bambi Max bucket providing multiple delivery options. It is also the first of its type involved in contracted aerial firefighting operations in Australia. Named FIRECAT, it is the largest Australian owned, operated, and registered aerial firefighting helicopter in the country, capable of carrying over 4,000-litres of water or retardant and seating capacity of 24 passengers. This morning marks the next milestone in our AS332L1 Super Puma’s journey, with the commencement of its fire season contract (initially at Mangalore, before moving to Ballarat with seasonal demands).
#Endless sky kestrel update#
This project shows how we are responding to the increased frequency of major bushfires and working to protect communities and the environmentįunding for the Remote Water Access Project is part of the Government’s $2.7 billion Building Works package which supports projects in bushfire-affected areas to rebuild and update infrastructure and assets. The new ‘Heli-Dip’ site on Dunstans Track in the Upper Murray will allow helicopters to fill their tanks or buckets with up to 11,000 litres of water.Īdditional Heli-Dips are planned for Mount Sarah and Kate’s Track in the Tea Tree Range, Mount Selwyn Creek, and Matlock.
![endless sky kestrel endless sky kestrel](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/ISDp-dYUVHY/hqdefault.jpg)
Rapid response to bushfires is critical to protecting communities and the environment.Īccess to water in some of Victoria’s most fire-prone remote areas is a major challenge for firefighters.Ī new project in the state’s north east is providing firebombing aircraft with quicker access to water, helping to cut flight turnaround times.