Avincis integrates TracPlus tracking for enhanced aerial emergency operations in Europe

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured News

TracPlus to provide operational intelligence for Avincis’ emergency fleet

Avincis, a major provider of emergency aerial services in Europe, has selected TracPlus to supply operational intelligence and tracking across its fleet of approximately 220 aircraft, as reported by TracPlus.

The collaboration, unveiled ahead of the European Rotors event in Amsterdam, aims to integrate Avincis’ Emergency Medical Services, Search and Rescue, and Aerial Firefighting operations onto one coordinated platform across 180 locations.

This integration, involving TracPlus’ technology, will enable Avincis to consolidate data from its extensive operations spread across multiple countries, facilitating a comprehensive view of fleet activity.

TracPlus supports more than 60 tracking devices, including ADS-B, capturing key data such as flight times, locations, operational patterns, and mission-specific metrics.

Enhanced data integration across Avincis’ 220-aircraft fleet

The TracPlus platform provides operators with critical operational insights by consolidating mission data into a single source.

This unified approach offers Avincis a complete perspective on asset utilisation, including detailed views of individual aircraft patterns and overall fleet trends.

Avincis’ Group CEO, John Boag, stated that choosing TracPlus was motivated by the platform’s flexibility and capacity for integration: “TracPlus stood out for their ability to seamlessly consolidate our diverse operations into a single, coherent system.

“Their ability to integrate hardware from existing install devices was instrumental in our decision.

“This seamless integration not only simplified our transition but also revolutionised how we answer the critical questions of ‘where are my aircraft and what are they doing?’”

Avincis to improve visibility and operational efficiency with TracPlus

TracPlus’ system allows Avincis to achieve higher levels of operational efficiency and visibility without needing to replace existing tracking devices.

This comprehensive approach to operational intelligence has reportedly enhanced Avincis’ understanding of fleet performance and operational safety.

Boag emphasised the benefits of this data-centric approach: “With TracPlus, we’re able to achieve a level of operational visibility and efficiency which we simply couldn’t before, and we didn’t need to change any of the tracking devices already installed.

“This comprehensive approach to data analytics and operational intelligence has revolutionised our understanding of fleet performance, safety metrics, and operational efficiency and ensures Avincis remains at the forefront of aerial emergency services.”

TracPlus supports mission-critical operations with advanced analytics

Todd O’Hara, Chief Product Officer at TracPlus, expressed his pride in partnering with Avincis, noting the platform’s ability to support demanding mission-critical operations: “Our solutions are specifically engineered to support the demanding nature of mission-critical operations like those undertaken by Avincis.

“Through seamless integration with existing systems and advanced analytics, we’re helping Avincis focus on what matters most – delivering exceptional emergency services.”

For Avincis, the partnership consolidates various data points into a single, accessible view, allowing comprehensive tracking of operational activities such as flight durations, mission-specific data, and response metrics.

O’Hara added: “This consolidated operational intelligence enables better decision-making, enhanced safety oversight, and improved operational efficiency across their entire network.”

Avincis integrates TracPlus tracking for enhanced aerial emergency operations in Europe: Summary

Avincis, a leading provider of emergency aerial services in Europe, has selected TracPlus to enhance tracking and operational intelligence for its fleet of around 220 aircraft, as reported by TracPlus.

Announced at European Rotors in Amsterdam, the partnership integrates Avincis’ various services, such as Emergency Medical Services, Search and Rescue, and Aerial Firefighting, across 180 bases on one platform.

TracPlus’ technology, compatible with over 60 tracking devices, enables Avincis to consolidate operational data into actionable insights, enhancing fleet visibility and efficiency.

Image Credit – Ned Dawson

Western Australia deploys aerial firefighting fleet to protect grain harvest during fire-prone season

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured News

Aerial firefighting fleet deployed early for crop protection

The Government of Western Australia has activated its Grain Harvest Aerial Fleet early in response to the heightened fire risk during the state’s peak grain harvesting season.

The fleet, managed by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES), includes two aerial strike teams strategically located in the primary grain-growing areas of Geraldton and Narrogin, positioned to rapidly respond to crop fires sparked by lightning or machinery.

Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson explained the initiative, stating: “Grain is one of our State’s most valuable export commodities and by all reports the grain growers are in for a bumper year.”

Dawson highlighted the importance of early activation of the strike teams, adding that it “takes the pressure off our farmers, who are usually first responders themselves, by providing extra resourcing when it is needed most.”

Fleet configuration and capabilities

Each strike team in the fleet comprises two fixed-wing waterbombers, an air attack supervision aircraft, and a fuel truck.

The waterbombers, capable of flying at 280 km/h, can deliver up to 3,150 litres of water, foam, or fire retardant with minimal downtime for refueling and reloading.

This rapid response setup aims to contain fires swiftly, reducing the potential for widespread crop damage.

As reported by the Government of Western Australia, these aircraft will initially be stationed in Geraldton and Narrogin but are set to relocate south as the season progresses.

Strike teams are also prepared to pre-deploy to other regional airbases as necessary, based on real-time fire intelligence and weather conditions.

Seasonal preparedness and historical effectiveness

The Grain Harvest Aerial Fleet program, now in its fourth year, is funded by DFES with additional support from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

The program has demonstrated its effectiveness, as during the 2023-24 harvest, the fleet completed 216 water drops across 33 incidents, dispersing 680,400 litres of water and retardant across firegrounds from Geraldton to Esperance.

Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis emphasised the strategic placement of resources: “By activating the Grain Harvest Aerial Fleet early, and strategically basing these aircraft in our main growing regions, we’re ensuring our farming communities are best prepared for this high-risk time.”

Local and regional support for the initiative

Local representatives, including Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton, have expressed strong support for the fleet’s activation, particularly as grain growers anticipate a productive season.

Dalton noted: “The Grain Harvest Aerial Fleet program has proven its worth over the past three years, and the statistics from the last harvest season speak volumes about its effectiveness.”

Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Darren Klemm AFSM reiterated the importance of the program in addressing crop fires in high-risk areas, stating: “Crop fires can spread incredibly quickly in these high fuel load areas as the weather heats up and the surrounding vegetation dries out, so we’ve based waterbombing aircraft in strategic locations to provide a rapid firefighting response.”

Western Australia deploys aerial firefighting fleet to protect grain harvest during fire-prone season: Summary

The Government of Western Australia has preemptively deployed its specialised aerial firefighting fleet to safeguard grain crops during the high-risk harvest season.

The Grain Harvest Aerial Fleet, managed by DFES, includes strategically placed strike teams in Geraldton and Narrogin, each equipped with two fixed-wing waterbombers and an air attack supervision aircraft.

Capable of delivering up to 3,150 litres per drop, the aircraft aim to prevent crop damage from fires ignited by lightning or machinery.

Now in its fourth operational year, the fleet’s early activation is intended to address the increased fire risk linked to the grain harvest season.

Funded by DFES and supported by state agriculture and conservation departments, the program continues to aid Western Australia’s farming communities by providing rapid response resources as the season progresses southward into more fire-prone areas.

Australia’s Green Triangle to gain enhanced aerial firefighting support at Mount Gambier Airport

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured News

Upgraded aerial firefighting support for Green Triangle region

Work has commenced to install new firefighting equipment to protect 334,000 hectares of forest plantations across Australia’s Green Triangle region, as reported by the Minister for Emergency Management.

A 144kL water tank and dual diesel-electric water pump are being added to Mount Gambier Regional Airport’s infrastructure, enhancing the area’s aerial firefighting capabilities.

The installation, co-funded by over $415,000 from the Albanese Government’s Disaster Ready Fund and the District Council of Grant, is expected to bolster the capacity of fire authorities to manage bushfires.

This initiative aims to protect forest areas, including pine and blue gum plantations, and communities from Kingston SE, South Australia, to Warrnambool, Victoria.

New assets replace decades-old infrastructure

The upgrade replaces aerial firefighting infrastructure dating back to the 1960s, with the new tank and pump slated for completion in early 2025.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Senator Jenny McAllister, highlighted the importance of this upgrade to the region: “The Green Triangle Region is an important part of Australia’s Forestry and Forest Products industry, with this investment core to protecting the pine and blue gum plantations across South Australia’s Limestone Coast and Western Districts of Victoria.”

She added: “Modernising and increasing water access for aerial firefighting means the region is better equipped to combat bushfires, protecting the forestry plantations and the lives and livelihoods of thousands of Forestry workers across the Region.”

Regional and community benefits from new firefighting resources

South Australian Minister for Emergency Services, the Hon Dan Cregan, also commented on the project’s benefits: “This upgraded asset will be a critical resource to assist firefighting efforts in the South East, protecting communities and our timber resources.”

He noted that the Disaster Ready Fund’s support would improve fire response for residents and workers in one of the state’s most productive regions, further ensuring safety and industry protection within the Green Triangle.

Local authority’s role in enhanced emergency response

According to the Mayor of the District Council of Grant, Kylie Boston, Mount Gambier Regional Airport serves a critical function in regional emergency management, including aerial firefighting.

Boston remarked: “The Mount Gambier Regional Airport services the Limestone Coast and parts of Western Victoria, as does its infrastructure which plays a critical role in emergency management, particularly in supporting aerial waterbombing over our region.”

Boston explained that the need for this upgrade was identified in collaboration with the Limestone Coast Zone Emergency Management Committee, given the extreme risk bushfires pose without aerial support.

The project’s aim is to provide reliable fire mitigation tools, ensuring a sustainable and effective aerial waterbombing response for decades to come.

Australia’s Green Triangle to gain enhanced aerial firefighting support at Mount Gambier Airport: Summary

New firefighting equipment, including a 144kL water tank and dual diesel-electric water pump, is being installed at Mount Gambier Regional Airport to support bushfire mitigation in Australia’s Green Triangle.

Funded by over $415,000 from the Albanese Government’s Disaster Ready Fund and the District Council of Grant, the project will replace ageing 1960s infrastructure, aiming for completion in the first half of 2025.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Senator Jenny McAllister, and South Australian Minister for Emergency Services, the Hon Dan Cregan, emphasised the project’s role in protecting forest plantations, communities, and workers across South Australia and Victoria.

Local leaders, including District Council of Grant Mayor Kylie Boston, recognised the airport’s pivotal role in emergency management, with this upgrade marking a significant advancement in regional fire response capabilities.

Western Australia adds $10.1 million to expand aerial firefighting resources

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured News

WA government commits $10.1 million to expand aerial firefighting fleet

The Cook Labor Government has committed an additional $10.1 million to strengthen Western Australia’s aerial firefighting capacity in anticipation of a challenging bushfire season, as reported by the Government of Western Australia.

This investment will include the addition of two Black Hawk helicopters, which will be part of the state’s largest aerial firefighting fleet to date.

These helicopters, capable of carrying up to 4,500 litres of water each, will be operational for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 bushfire seasons.

They will be stationed in strategic locations to the north and south of Perth to provide rapid response to bushfire incidents.

Cardup fire station nearing completion

The new Cardup Career Fire and Rescue Service Station, currently under construction, is expected to be completed by December 2024.

The $14.5 million facility is part of a broader effort to improve emergency response services in Perth’s south-east, which is experiencing significant growth.

Premier Roger Cook said: “The completion of Cardup Fire Station this year and the delivery of additional frontline career personnel is another important milestone for public safety.”

The station will house 36 firefighters and receive three advanced firefighting appliances.

DFES urges bushfire preparedness ahead of early campaign launch

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) has launched its annual bushfire safety campaign earlier than usual, reflecting the heightened risk of bushfires this season.

This year, Western Australians are encouraged to make bushfire plans now, with only 1.95% of households having a documented plan despite 93% of the state being bushfire-prone.

Minister for Emergency Services Stephen Dawson urged the public to act: “Making decisions when the heat is on is extremely difficult and dangerous, so don’t leave it too late or you could be putting your family at risk.”

My Bushfire Plan app promoted to aid in emergency planning

The My Bushfire Plan app and website have been highlighted as essential tools to help residents prepare for bushfires.

These resources guide users in creating a bushfire plan, including critical decisions like whether to evacuate early or stay to defend their homes.

DFES Commissioner Darren Klemm emphasised the importance of preparation: “Firefighters can’t be at every home during an emergency, so it’s important that people sit down with their family now, complete a bushfire plan and agree on a course of action.”

Western Australia adds $10.1 million to expand firefighting resources: Summary

The Cook Labor Government has allocated an additional $10.1 million to Western Australia‘s aerial firefighting fleet, ahead of what is expected to be a challenging bushfire season.

Two Black Hawk helicopters, each capable of carrying 4,500 litres of water, will join the state’s firefighting resources for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons.

The new Cardup Career Fire and Rescue Station, set to open in December 2024, will host 36 firefighters and enhance response capabilities in Perth’s south-east.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has launched an early bushfire safety campaign, urging residents to make use of the My Bushfire Plan app to prepare for emergencies.

CFA launches world-first mixed reality fire aviation simulator in Victoria

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured NewsProductsTraining

Groundbreaking aviation simulator launched at VEMTC

The Country Fire Authority (CFA) has introduced a world-first mixed reality fire aviation simulator designed to enhance the training of aviation personnel in Victoria.

The new simulator, which features advanced mixed reality goggles offering a 280-degree view of the landscape, provides a safe environment for pilots and aviation staff to hone their skills.

Launched on 9 October 2024 at the Victorian Emergency Management Training Centre (VEMTC) in Bangholme, the simulator was presented by Emergency Services Minister Jaclyn Symes alongside CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan and FFMVic Deputy Chief Fire Officer Fiona Dunstan.

The $640,000 project was co-funded by the CFA and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA).

Origins of the simulator project

The concept of the aviation simulator began with a prototype trailer, developed by CFA Aviation Commander John Katakouzinos AFSM during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020.

The prototype, initially built in Katakouzinos’ garage, continues to be used by aviation members across Victoria.

Katakouzinos said the need for a permanent simulator became clear after the success of the initial version.

He explained: “The simulator allows aviation volunteers and staff to undertake mapping, air attack missions, direct aircraft, and practise communication and radio skills in a simulated environment.”

Enhancing fire aviation training across Victoria

The simulator’s design includes photorealistic mapping software and communication technology, which replicates the interior of an aircraft.

This enables pilots and students to experience a realistic flight environment.

The simulator can be programmed to train users in various scenarios, using any aircraft deployed for aerial firefighting in Australia.

It can also re-enact previous operations for pre-season training, making it a versatile tool for aviation personnel.

More than 300 Air Attack Supervisors, Air Observers, and Airborne Mission Commanders have already been trained or reaccredited using both the prototype and the new permanent simulator.

Expanding beyond Victoria

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan praised the efforts of those involved in developing this innovative tool.

He said: “The new aviation simulator at Bangholme as well as the existing simulator trailer are vital assets for aviation training across Victoria.”

Heffernan also highlighted the increasing interest from other agencies, with a portable version of the simulator trailer currently being built for NSW Parks and Wildlife.

The aviation simulator is expected to enhance collaboration between different organisations, offering essential training for firefighting efforts across Australia.

CFA introduces innovative mixed reality simulator for fire aviation training: Summary

The Country Fire Authority (CFA) has launched a mixed reality fire aviation simulator aimed at improving the training of aviation personnel.

The project, costing $640,000, was jointly funded by CFA and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA).

Originally conceived by CFA Aviation Commander John Katakouzinos during the COVID-19 lockdown, the simulator has become a key tool in training more than 300 personnel in Victoria.

The system replicates real flight conditions using photorealistic mapping and is adaptable for any aircraft used in aerial firefighting.

The portable prototype trailer is still in use, with further interest shown by other Australian agencies.

EU sends aircraft to Greece to combat northern Peloponnese wildfires

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured NewsWildland Fire

Wildfires in Greece prompt EU Civil Protection Mechanism activation

As reported by Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), wildfires have erupted across Greece, particularly in the northern Peloponnese region.

In response to Greece’s request through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism on 1 October 2024, the EU has swiftly mobilised aircraft to assist in firefighting efforts.

The EU’s Emergency Response Coordination Centre has deployed three firefighting planes from the rescEU emergency reserves.

These planes, originating from Croatia and Italy, have already arrived in Greece and are actively assisting in the suppression of the fires.

Emergency satellite mapping, via the EU’s Copernicus system, has also been initiated to provide local authorities with updated maps to support their operations.

Previous EU firefighting support during Greece’s wildfire season

Earlier this year, Greece requested EU support twice during its wildfire season.

Through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, Greece received assistance in the form of five firefighting planes, two helicopters, and seven ground teams, which totalled 348 firefighters and 115 vehicles.

This support was essential in helping Greece manage the fires at the time.

In addition to this, Greece also hosted a prepositioning programme, which involved the deployment of firefighters and vehicles in advance to strengthen the country’s preparedness.

These personnel remained in Greece for several weeks, ready to respond to emergencies.

EU’s ongoing monitoring and future support

The European Commission remains vigilant as wildfires continue to threaten Greece.

Through its Copernicus satellite system, the Commission is closely monitoring fire danger forecasts.

Should the situation escalate, the EU stands ready to mobilise additional resources as needed.

The EU’s coordinated response highlights its ongoing commitment to assisting member states during times of natural disasters.

Greece continues to benefit from the EU’s extensive emergency resources, which are available through the Civil Protection Mechanism.

Emergency satellite mapping and firefighting aircraft

The EU’s Copernicus system is being employed to aid local Greek authorities with accurate and timely satellite maps.

These maps are designed to provide real-time data that can be used to plan effective firefighting strategies.

The system’s deployment is part of the EU’s broader support for Greece during the ongoing crisis.

The firefighting planes sent to Greece have been mobilised from Croatia and Italy, demonstrating the collaborative nature of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.

This rapid response is crucial in addressing the fast-moving wildfires that are currently spreading across the northern Peloponnese.

EU sends aircraft to Greece to combat northern Peloponnese wildfires: Summary

The EU has dispatched three firefighting planes to Greece to combat wildfires in the northern Peloponnese region, following Greece’s activation of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.

These aircraft, mobilised from Croatia and Italy, have arrived to assist in controlling the flames.

In addition, the EU has launched emergency satellite mapping through the Copernicus system to support local authorities.

This is the third time this wildfire season that Greece has requested EU assistance, having received firefighting aircraft, helicopters, and ground teams earlier in the year.

The European Commission continues to monitor the situation and remains ready to provide further support if necessary.

Portugal wildfires claim six lives as firefighters struggle to contain blazes

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured NewsWildland Fire

Firefighters battle raging wildfires across northern Portugal

As reported by AP News, over five thousand firefighters were deployed on Tuesday to fight multiple wildfires spreading across northern Portugal.

The fires have resulted in the deaths of at least six people, including four firefighters, and prompted numerous evacuations, though officials have yet to provide an exact count of displaced residents or lost homes.

More than 50 people have sustained injuries.

Civil Protection official André Fernandes confirmed that three firefighters died while travelling by road.

It remains unclear if their vehicle crashed or was overtaken by flames.

Two civilian deaths were also confirmed, one due to burns and the other from cardiac arrest.

Additionally, one firefighter died over the weekend from an unspecified illness.

Conditions worsen as firefighting efforts continue

The ongoing fires are being exacerbated by dry, hot weather, with no rain expected.

Authorities have extended a fire alert until Thursday and introduced measures such as banning farmers from using heavy machinery, as sparks could trigger additional blazes.

Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro addressed the nation on Monday, urging calm but also stressing the severity of the situation: “We will endure difficult hours in the coming days. We need to prepare for it and we need to come together for it.”

The district of Aveiro, located south of Porto, is among the hardest hit areas.

Other regions with dense forested areas are also struggling to contain the fires.

EU provides support as situation worsens

European Union members, including Spain, France, Italy, and Greece, have stepped in to support Portugal’s firefighting efforts by committing eight aircraft to assist local authorities.

Ground units in Portugal are already supported by national water-dropping aircraft.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated on social media: “The EU stands with Portugal as it battles major wildfires.

“I thank France, Greece, Italy and Spain for their rapid reaction. This is EU solidarity at its best.”

Despite the aid, many locals have resorted to using makeshift tools like tree branches and buckets of water to defend their homes against the advancing flames.

Wildfire history in Portugal

Portugal has faced devastating wildfires in recent history, most notably in 2017, when massive blazes killed over 120 people and destroyed more than half a million hectares of land.

Current conditions, combined with high temperatures and a lack of rainfall, are raising concerns that this year’s fires could follow a similar trajectory.

Authorities are working to prevent further loss of life and property as firefighting efforts continue in affected areas.

The scope of the damage remains uncertain, with the potential for more evacuations as the situation unfolds.

Portugal wildfires claim six lives as firefighters struggle to contain blazes: Summary

Wildfires in northern Portugal have claimed six lives, including four firefighters, and caused numerous injuries.

Authorities are struggling to contain the fires as dry, hot conditions persist, and an extended alert for further fires remains in place.

The fires, concentrated in areas such as Aveiro, have forced an unknown number of residents to evacuate.

European Union nations have sent additional firefighting planes to aid local efforts.

This situation is reminiscent of the devastating 2017 fires that caused significant loss of life and property.

Efforts to control the fires are ongoing, with more support expected from international partners.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue tests autonomous firefighting drone swarm

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured NewsResearch

Trial of drone swarm technology in Cornwall

Lancashire Fire and Rescue, in collaboration with Windracers and AI researchers from the University of Bristol and the University of Sheffield, has tested a swarm of autonomous firefighting drones to detect and suppress wildfires.

The project aims to provide cost-effective, early fire mitigation strategies.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service’s Chief Fire Officer, Justin Johnston, emphasised the importance of early fire response: “The earlier we reach fires, the less harm they pose to firefighters, communities, infrastructure and the environment.”

The trial took place at Preddanack airport in Cornwall, where the drones successfully identified and approached controlled fires under close monitoring by fire services.

This trial is seen as a significant milestone towards the deployment of autonomous wildfire prevention technology in the near future.

Collaboration with AI and robotics experts

Windracers, a British manufacturer of self-flying cargo aircraft, partnered with leading AI and robotics experts from the University of Bristol and the University of Sheffield to develop this technology.

The drone swarm uses artificial intelligence, thermal, and optical imaging to detect fires autonomously and coordinate responses in real-time.

Professor Sabine Hauert from the University of Bristol explained the importance of this technology: “Finding and tackling wildfires before they become a problem requires many robots to work together as a swarm.

“We’ve spoken to firefighters around the world to design a swarm that is useful and easy for them to operate.”

The drones, equipped with fire retardant and capable of monitoring large areas, could provide critical support to fire and rescue services across the UK in the future.

Autonomous technology set for future deployment

This drone swarm technology has been under development for four years and has the potential to significantly aid in the early detection and suppression of wildfires.

Windracers’ ULTRA aircraft, which have previously been used for various tasks, including parcel delivery and scientific data collection, played a central role in the trial.

Stephen Wright, Founder and Executive Chairman at Windracers, commented on the progress: “This successful trial was the culmination of four years of research and development which brought together some of the country’s greatest minds in autonomous aviation, AI, and robotics to help tackle one of society’s greatest challenges.”

Pending regulatory approval, these autonomous systems could be deployed by fire services in the coming years.

UK Research and Innovation funding

The development of this technology has been supported by The Future Flight challenge at UK Research and Innovation, which provided funding through Innovate UK.

The project, titled ‘Protecting environments with unmanned aerial vehicle swarms,’ was one of 17 initiatives to share £73 million in funding aimed at advancing aviation systems and vehicle technologies.

This project represents a concerted effort to address the increasing frequency and severity of wildfires in the UK.

In 2022, the UK experienced over 44,000 wildfires, a 72% rise from the previous year, due to factors such as climate change and drought conditions.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue tests autonomous firefighting drone swarm: Summary

Lancashire Fire and Rescue, in partnership with Windracers and researchers from the University of Bristol and the University of Sheffield, tested an autonomous drone swarm for firefighting.

The drones, developed over four years, can detect and suppress fires using AI and thermal imaging.

During trials in Cornwall, the swarm successfully identified and approached controlled fires.

This project, funded by UK Research and Innovation’s Future Flight challenge, aims to reduce wildfire risk across the UK.

Pending regulatory approval, the technology could soon be deployed by fire services to tackle the increasing threat of wildfires.

European Commission supports Portugal in fight against Madeira wildfire

by Aerial FirefightingFeatured News

EU mobilises firefighting resources in Madeira

The European Commission announced on Thursday that it is ready to deploy more resources to support firefighting efforts in Madeira, Portugal, where a large wildfire has been burning for over a week.

According to the Commission’s statement, it is “closely monitoring the situation” and has already dispatched two Canadair firefighting planes from Spain through the European Civil Protection Mechanism, after receiving a formal request from Portugal.

The wildfire broke out on 14 August in the mountainous region of Ribeira Brava, Madeira.

It has spread across various municipalities, prompting evacuations for nearly 200 people.

While some residents have since returned home, those in Fajã das Galinhas remain displaced.

As of now, no homes or critical infrastructure have been damaged.

Copernicus system activated for emergency mapping

The European Commission has also activated the Copernicus emergency satellite system to assist local authorities with mapping the impacted areas.

The satellite imagery will provide vital data to the emergency teams on the ground, helping coordinate efforts to manage the wildfire.

This additional layer of support is part of the EU’s comprehensive approach to aiding Portugal during this emergency.

The European Civil Protection Mechanism, designed to facilitate mutual aid among member states, has also pre-positioned over 560 firefighters from 12 countries to tackle the wildfire season across Europe.

Portugal’s government calls for European support

Portugal formally activated the European Civil Protection Mechanism on Wednesday.

This mechanism allows countries to request assistance from the EU’s strategic reserve of emergency resources, which includes 28 planes and four helicopters.

The Commission’s Emergency Response Coordination Centre responded immediately to Portugal’s call, facilitating the deployment of two Canadair aircraft to the island.

These planes will offer crucial air support to local authorities working under challenging conditions due to high winds and temperatures.

Local investigation points to arson as the cause

The fire has already burned through more than 4,930 hectares of land, according to the European Forest Fire Information System.

While local authorities are investigating the fire’s origin, Miguel Albuquerque, the president of the Madeiran government, has publicly stated that the blaze was likely started by arson.

The ongoing investigation by the Judicial Police will determine the cause of the fire as the firefighting efforts continue.

European Commission supports Portugal in fight against Madeira wildfire: summary

The European Commission has mobilised additional resources to help Portugal battle a major wildfire in Madeira, which started on 14 August in Ribeira Brava.

Two Canadair firefighting planes were sent from Spain through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism following a request from Portugal.

The Copernicus emergency satellite system has also been activated to assist local authorities with mapping the affected areas.

Despite difficult conditions, including high winds and temperatures, no homes or critical infrastructure have been destroyed.

The fire has consumed more than 4,930 hectares, and arson is suspected as the cause.

EU begins production of permanent rescEU firefighting fleet

by Aerial FirefightingBreaking News

EU to create permanent rescEU fleet for firefighting

The European Union has initiated the production of twelve amphibious firefighting planes to form part of the permanent rescEU fleet.

This decision follows agreements signed between several EU Member States and the Canadian Commercial Corporation.

As reported by the European Union, these aircraft will be funded by the European Commission and will play a key role in crisis response efforts to combat forest fires across Europe.

The new fleet is expected to be available by 2027 and will support Member States in rapidly responding to wildfire emergencies.

This production is part of the EU’s broader strategy to establish a permanent rescEU firefighting fleet.

Croatia, France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain will host the aircraft, which will provide critical support during severe wildfires.

In addition, ten more firefighting planes are being procured by Member States to strengthen their national firefighting capabilities.

European Commission backs firefighting fleet

The European Commission has taken a leading role in the financing and establishment of this fleet.

Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič commented on the initiative, stating: “This is a historic moment in European civil protection in this age of climate crisis.”

Lenarčič emphasised the need for enhanced firefighting capacities as wildfire seasons become more intense and less predictable.

He added: “Thanks to our collaboration, we are well on track with the timeline set by the European Commission to acquire a new, permanent fleet of firefighting aircraft.”

This announcement follows coordinated efforts between the Commission and EU Member States to expedite the acquisition of firefighting planes.

The initial batch of planes is expected to be delivered by 2027, with helicopters arriving in 2026.

EU Civil Protection Mechanism strengthens its capacity

The establishment of this fleet is part of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, which was created to ensure a coordinated pan-European response to emergencies.

The mechanism includes a European reserve of firefighting resources, which is funded entirely by the EU.

Since 2019, the rescEU reserve has been expanded to include firefighting planes and helicopters to address the growing threat of wildfires exacerbated by climate change.

The planes will be distributed among six EU countries that have seen increasing fire risks due to changing environmental conditions.

The permanent rescEU fleet will enable a quicker and more coordinated response across the continent during severe wildfire events.

Wildfire response preparedness boosted by national fleets

In addition to the new rescEU fleet, EU Member States are also increasing their national firefighting capacities.

Ten additional planes are being purchased by individual countries to further bolster their national fleets.

This expansion is a response to the rising incidence of wildfires in Europe, which have become a continent-wide concern due to climate change.

The reinforced national fleets and the establishment of the rescEU fleet will ensure that Member States are better equipped to face future wildfires.

These efforts are a part of the EU’s ongoing strategy to address the challenges posed by climate change and to protect European citizens from the increasing risks of natural disasters.

EU begins production of permanent firefighting fleet: summary

The European Union has launched the production of twelve amphibious firefighting planes to be part of the permanent rescEU fleet.

The planes are funded by the European Commission and will be deployed across six EU Member States—Croatia, France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain.

The first delivery is expected in 2027.

The initiative is part of the EU’s Civil Protection Mechanism, which aims to enhance coordinated firefighting response across the continent.

Alongside the EU-funded planes, Member States are also acquiring ten additional aircraft to strengthen their national fleets.