Overview
In support of its ground forces, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CDF) emergency response air program includes 23 Grumman S-2T 1,200 gallon airtankers, eleven UH-1H Super Huey helicopters, and 14 OV-10A airtactical aircraft. These aircraft are stationed at 13 air attack and nine helitack bases located statewide, and can reach most fires within 20 minutes. During high fire activity, CDF may move aircraft to better provide statewide air support.
The airtactical planes fly overhead at a fire, directing the airtankers and helicopters to critical areas of the fire for retardant and water drops. The retardant used to slow or retard the spread of a fire is a slurry mix consisting of a chemical salt compound, water, clay or a gum-thickening agent, and a coloring agent. While both air tankers and helicopters are equipped to carry fire retardant or water, the helicopters can also transport firefighters, equipment and injured personnel.
The average annual budget of the CDF Aviation Management Program is nearly $20 million. A total of 18 CDF personnel oversee the program with an additional 130 contract employees providing mechanical, pilot and management services.
CDF's current support contractors are DynCorp and Logistics Specialties Incorporated (LSI). DynCorp provides airtanker and airtactical aircraft pilot services, and all aircraft maintenance services. All CDF helicopters are flown by CDF pilots. LSI provides procurement and parts management services.
Read more about this topic: CDF Aviation Management Program