Neptune Aviation launches A319 airtanker conversion program

Aerial firefighting firm Neptune Aviation has announced the start of conversion work for its new Airbus A319 next-generation airtanker program.

The program has received delivery of its first A319 for conversion, with plans to finish conversion of the aircraft ahead of the 2028 wildfire season.

Neptune partnered with the France-based engineering firm Aerotec & Concept to design the modifications, and work on the aircraft will be carried out by Alabama-based maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider Commercial Jet.

The A319 will offer a higher retardant capacity (4,500gal) than Neptune’s existing BAe 146 fleet, which can carry up to 3,000gal. The A319 can also carry more fuel and offers a faster cruise speed than its predecessor, allowing for more responsive and continuous firefighting.

The announcement also follows the completion of Neptune’s critical design review for the A319.

Test flights of the modified aircraft are expected within the coming weeks.

“The acquisition of our first A319 is a pivotal moment for our organization and the wildland firefighting industry,” said Nic Lynn, Vice President of Operations at Neptune Aviation. “The upgrade of our airtanker fleet is fully underway. We have a physical aircraft available that we can convert for aerial firefighting. Our team can start performing test flights, and we can start zeroing in on completing the modifications that must be made to have the aircraft ready for 2028.”