August 2000 Fire Season
(Continued) 
We also worked on larger fires where crews and equipment had been involved for days.
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We'd land
at the fire's helibase to get a briefing and look at the map of the
situation. Then we'd get in contact with either the "Air Attack"
or "Lead" aircraft (depending upon which agency had cognizance over
the operation) and begin dropping our water.
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The majority of the time, we'd work at smaller "hot spots" where our 600 to 700-gallon water drops would do the most good. We'd work with "hot shot" crews who'd been inserted near the fire or worked their way up to it. Once we'd drop, they'd move in and take advantage of the sudden cool-down. |
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Other times, we'd be assigned isolated regions too tight for fixed-wing air tankers but where our smaller drops might lessen the possibility of the fire spreading. |
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Yet other fires turned out to be extremely remote and in nearly inaccessible mountain locations. |
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These were by far our most challenging assignments since the combination of heavy water loads, warm summer temperatures, and the high elevations (usually above 8000 feet), took every ounce of lift our aircraft could deliver. There were NO margins. As always, we did extensive preflight performance planning.
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As we approached, however, the fires never failed to take on realistic proportions.
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With our Black Hawk right at the very edge of its power envelope, we'd maneuver ourselves into position to drop our bucket of water. The photo sequence shown below was shot as we flew at 70 knots toward a near-vertical granite face at an elevation of about 9000 feet. Only able to climb slowly, we waited for just the right moment to drop our water to hit the tiny smoking region low in the gully (arrows). With our 3000-pound burden gone in three seconds, we'd suddenly pop clear of the ridge to return for another load. |
Those who think they've fully explored "extreme sports" might find trying this--ah--"stimulating."
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All considered, the mission
went well. We experienced some of the most intense and demanding flying
possible while being appreciated and well cared-for by CDF. One of the
nicer aspects was the CDF "Helitender" and van which followed us
everywhere we went. The tender provided fuel, communications, and
supplies, tremendously easing potential logistical problems.
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Without a doubt, the best part of the experience was being a part of our CDF team. As we move through our aviation careers, we'll always look forward to firefighting and especially the lasting friendships sharing these adventures never fails to create. |
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