Aerial Fire Fighting Asia-Pacific returns as wildfire challenges continue to evolve

As wildfire risk continues to evolve, agencies are adapting to longer fire seasons, increasingly complex incidents, and the growing need for innovation, collaboration, and effective aerial response.

Against this backdrop, Aerial Fire Fighting Asia-Pacific 2026 (AFF APAC 2026) returns to Australia’s Gold Coast on 22–23 July, welcoming fire and emergency service leaders, government agencies, aviation operators, researchers, and industry leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

Organized by Tangent Link, AFF APAC forms part of the international Aerial Fire Fighting event series, which for more than two decades has provided a platform for the global aerial firefighting community to exchange operational experience, examine emerging technologies, and discuss the challenges shaping the future of the sector.

This year’s program reflects many of the issues currently facing operators and agencies alike. Sessions will explore aviation safety, fleet capability, contracting models, uncrewed aircraft systems, artificial intelligence, research into aerial firefighting effectiveness, and the growing importance of international cooperation during increasingly demanding fire seasons.

Delegates will hear from senior representatives of Australia’s fire and emergency services alongside speakers from New Zealand, Malaysia, Thailand, the USA, and France, offering perspectives from jurisdictions operating in a diverse range of fire environments.

Alongside the conference program, a static display will showcase operational firefighting aircraft and emerging technologies, while the exhibition will bring together organizations developing the equipment, services, and capabilities supporting aerial firefighting operations.

France has seen a devastating wildfire season already this year.