Ecocopter by Helisul deploys helicopters in Chile to fight wildfires

Ecocopter by Helisul has outlined a strengthened aerial firefighting posture for Chile’s 2025–26 wildfire season, positioning a minimum fleet of seven helicopters across some of the country’s most fire-prone regions.

Based in Valparaíso, Ñuble, and Biobío, the deployment includes two Aircrane heavy-lift helicopters, three Super Pumas, and two Airbus H125 (B3) light helicopters. The company says the strategy is designed to ensure rapid response in historically high-risk areas while maintaining national flexibility should conditions escalate elsewhere.

Two B3 helicopters will be permanently stationed in the Valparaíso Region, where complex terrain and dense populations demand fast initial attack capability. Known for their agility and performance in confined areas, the B3s are intended to contain fires early and operate in difficult-to-access locations.

For large-scale incidents, Ecocopter by Helisul will field two Aircranes, each capable of delivering up to 10,000L of water per drop. Already operational in Ñuble and Biobío, the type is expected to play a key role in suppressing high-intensity fire fronts.

“The climate crisis and drought conditions compel us to stay one step ahead… Our strategy for this season is based on deploying specialized aircraft in the most critical areas,” said Francisco Arriagada, Commercial Manager of Ecocopter by Helisul, adding that the aim was to establish “a proactive air defense to protect Chile with the best technology and highly skilled crews”.

Three Super Pumas will remain on alert at strategic locations, available for redeployment nationwide. In addition to large-volume water drops, the helicopters can transport firefighters and equipment into remote areas, supporting multifaceted emergency response.

“Each helicopter fulfills a specific and vital function… This combination of advanced technology, along with the expertise of our crews, is our main strength for facing this season,” Arriagada said.

The deployment comes as the Chilean government increases wildfire funding to more than US$167 million, with 77 aircraft expected to be available nationwide for the season.

Ecocopter has been awarded a contract to provide helicopter maintenance services to the Air Police Brigade of the Investigations Police of Chile (PDI).