those CWN-dependent operators that do not have similar opportunities, another less-active fire season like 2019 could put them out of business.
At the same, the industry should be aware of considerations by state governments to establish their own aerial firefighting capabilities, much as California did years ago. The Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control confirmed that it is looking at moving in the direction of agency-owned helicopters in the future, although no decisions have been made to acquire helicopters at this time. Other states, specifically in the western U.S., are giving this consideration as well.
Another concern is the direction the USFS may want to go with helicopter fleet modernization. On Oct. 15, 2020, the agency issued a Request For Information (RFI) titled “National Exclusive-Use Helicopter Modernization” (Special Notice Number: SN-2021-01). Specifically addressing the Type 2 EU-contracted helicopter fleet, the RFI’s purpose is to
gather research concerning the daily cost of bringing next-generation helicopters onstream.
They would offer
greater
speed, improved crashworthiness, higher reliability, more payload, and multi-mission capability under EU contracts ranging from 120 to 240 days.
The problem is, the agency has not indicated its long-term requirements, which the operators need to know in order to prepare. Before the industry spends money on newer helicopters, it will need to get a commitment from the USFS in the form of long-term EU contracts.
I also believe the USFS needs a cultural change related to its expectations for the performance of a modern helicopter in a utility role. The agency must look at lessons learned over the years, to see where we came from and where we are today.
Dan Snyder is a senior VP with Neptune Aviation Services
rotorcraftpro.com
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