Texas A&M Forest Service orders two Subaru Bell 412EPXs
The helicopters will be used to fight fires and conduct forest management operations in the US state of Texas
Texas A&M Forest Service has placed an order for two Subaru Bell 412EPX helicopters to support its operations.
The rotorcraft will be the first to be acquired as part of a master purchasing agreement, which includes options for additional aircraft.
Texas A&M Forest Service will use the aircraft to support its wildfire and forest management operations in the southern US state.
Each aircraft will also be fitted with a hoist for rescue operations and a belly tank.
“Protecting lives and property is a priority in Texas,” said Jared Karns, Fire Chief for Texas A&M Forest Service. “This agreement is the first of many steps to develop a state-managed wildfire aviation program that will give Texas greater control over the timing, positioning, and deployment of fire suppression aircraft, helping keep Texas prepared.”
Meanwhile, in Florida, Flagler County Sheriff’s Office recently added a Bell 505 to its fleet.
Oliver Cuenca
Oliver Cuenca is a Junior Editor at the Voyageur Group. He was previously a News and Features Journalist for the rail magazine IRJ until 2021, and studied MA Magazine Journalism at Cardiff University. His favourite helicopter is the AW169 – the workhorse of the UK air ambulance sector! He also led the creation of Waypoint: The AirMed&Rescue podcast, serving as its Production Editor and co-host.