JOHN CARR
Firehouse.Com Contributing Writer/Photographer

Also See: Air Operations & Command | Helicopters | SlideShow

Photo By John Carr K-Man K-Max (Type II) More Photos

The use of helicopters on wildfires has become commonplace. Unlike fixed wing airtankers who paint a large area with retardant helicopters can be more selective. This allows them to work in close proximity with firefighters on the ground. With their ability to hover over a fire they can pinpoint their target. Helicopters can be selective, not general. They can make a concentrated drop of water or retardant on a threatened structure and be more certain of success.

Following their drop, fixed wing airtankers must return to an airport to refuel and refill. This often takes an hour or more. Most helicopters need as little as 18" of water to refill. As long as there is a natural water source such as a stream, lake or river, they can drop and refill in a matter of minutes. Even if there isn't water close by helicopters can be refilled using a portable holding tank and motorized water tankers.

Photo By John Carr A helibase More Photos

Most helicopters deliver water thru a flexible bucket attached to a cable. The water is released electronically. Unlike bucket carrying helicopters, helitankers carry their water in tanks. The Sikorsky Skycrane can fill its tank while in flight. It drops to within inches of the water, often times sitting in the water itself, and drafts water thru a large siphon hose. The Boeing-Vertol - 107 is a familiar sight to firefighters. With its elongated body and front and rear rotors it can deliver at least 750 gallons of water in its bucket.

Photo By John Carr A Skycrane (Type I) More Photos

New to wildfires is the K-Man K-Max. Its body is less than 4' wide, just enough room for the pilot. What makes this helicopter unique is its twin rotors made of wood. The rotors spin from one hub, in opposite directions. This eliminates the need for rear stabilization. Even the UH-60 Blackhawk has been adapted for firefighting. It is flown by military reserve pilots and qualifies as a Type I.

Helicopters are rated by the amount of water they carry. Many can shuttle 2,000 gallons of retardant or water.

• A Type I helicopter must carry at least 700 gallons of retardant
• A Type II helicopter must carry at least 300 gallons of retardant
• A Type III helicopter must carry at least 100 gallons of retardant
• A Type IV helicopter must carry at least 75 gallons of retardant

Photo By John Carr A Boeing-Vertol 107 (Type II) More Photos

While the use of smaller helicopters can be effective their limited water supply is often times impractical. In the mountainous regions of the West high altitudes and thin air further restricts helicopters. Operating in these areas is generally limited to Type I and II copters. Type III helicopters see service in surveillance or reconnaissance.

Like their fixed wing counterparts, helicopter owners contract with the Forest Service. While the federal government operates its own helicopter fleet they are used for command purposes, not firefighting. Contractors are paid to be on standby. This is called

Also See: Air Operations & Command | Helicopters | SlideShow