Airtankers

Airtankers are large aircraft used for aerial firefighting, primarily in the United States. They are equipped with large water tanks and are designed to drop large volumes of water or retardant on wildfires. The most common types of airtankers are the Boeing 747 and the McDonnell Douglas DC-10, which have been modified to carry up to 10,000 gallons of water or retardant. Airtankers are typically operated by state and federal agencies, such as the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) and the U.S. Forest Service. They play a crucial role in firefighting efforts, especially in large and remote fires where ground crews may not be able to reach. Airtankers are typically based at airports near major fire-prone areas and are dispatched as needed. They are a vital tool in the fight against wildfires, helping to contain and extinguish fires quickly and efficiently.