Erickson S-64 Aircrane renews US Forest Service contract

SikorskY S-64E Aircrane

Erickson Incorporated has renewed its national wild land fire-fighting contracts with the United States Forest Service.

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The company has been working with the U.S. Forest Service for 34 consecutive years.

Andrew Mills, vice president of Commercial Aviation said: “Erickson has geared up its fire crews and equipment to meet the challenges that the 2015 fire season may bring. At the peak of the US fire season, Erickson will have 12 dedicated Aircranes protecting lives and homes throughout North America, from southern California to Alaska. We take this mission very seriously, and we maintain 24/7 operations in support of our fleet as they respond to wildfires from now through November.”

The S-64 Aircrane is fitted with a 2,500 gallon tank capable of snorkeling or scooping fresh or salt water from sources as shallow as 18 inches with a fill rate of less than a minute. The tank also has internal foam mixing capabilities, and can dispense water or retardant from an attached water cannon at a rate of 300 gallons per minute.