GTFA contracts new firefighting helicopter
Australia’s Green Triangle Fire Alliance (GTFA) has leased a new Bell 204B firefighting helicopter under a three-year contract
The aircraft – registered as VH-EJL – reportedly offers greater water-carrying capacity than the B2 Squirrel contracted by GTFA in 2022 for use in the previous two summers. The Bell 204B aircraft is equipped with a 1,250-liter bucket. The aircraft is also equipped with a 1,250-liter bucket.
According to data from RregosSearch.com, the helicopter is owned by New South Wales-based operator Forest Air Helicopters.
Australia’s Green Triangle region is located on the country’s southern coast, spanning the border between the states of South Australia and Victoria.
The area is home to a substantial lumber industry, and consequently has a higher-than-average fire risk during the summer months. It is hoped that the new helicopter will offer substantial protection to the region’s plantations.
The helicopter was contracted through the government of Victoria, and will functionally serve as part of the Victorian firefighting fleet. The aircraft will be stationed permanently at its base in Casterton for the duration of the 14-week summer service period. This is in contrast to other aircraft in the fleet, which are reallocated as needed.
Arrangements have been put in place to allows the aircraft to operate in South Australia, despite originally being contracted by Victoria.
Kestrel Aviation, based in Victoria, announced upgrades to one of its own aerial firefighting helicopters last month.