The NSW RFS Chinook can now carry more water and operate at night. Photo: www.helis.com.au
The NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) has been giving Australia’s largest firefighting helicopter some much-needed upgrades in time for the fire season.
Its CH-47 Chinook now can carry more water: 11,000 litres in an internal tank, the RFS says.
It is a permanent solution to the temporary 10,000L bucket that it carried before, the service adds.
The helicopter can now fill faster and even operate at night when fire intensity is typically lower.
Previously, the Chinook’s bucket made it too dangerous to be used at night-time or over densely populated areas.
The RFS Chinook can now carry the largest water payload of any firefighting helicopter in Australia. It is second only to the Marie Bashir, a Boeing 737, in the RFS fleet which carries a 15,142L retardant capacity.
NSW Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib says the upgrades to the Chinook makes the RFS aerial fleet “even stronger”.
“This new capability to safely conduct aerial waterbombing at night is a game-changer for our response, allowing for faster turnarounds and greater capacity to protect people and properties,” he says.
“As we enter the warmer months and as the RFS and other fire agencies prepare, communities across the state should also do their bit by checking the readiness of their properties and their plan in the event of an emergency.”
NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner Rob Rogers says that the Chinook can directly attack fires with precision when conditions are typically more favourable – such as during night.
“The RFS is prepared to deploy our robust and versatile fleet wherever and whenever needed to protect communities and respond swiftly to fires across NSW,” he says.
The NSW RFS Chinook is one of a few used for firefighting globally; the heavy transport helicopter is mostly used by defence forces, including the Australian Army.
The aircraft operates out of RAAF Base Richmond in Sydney.
