Aircraft are one of the tools used to help fight wildfires in Texas. Helicopters and airtankers help support firefighters on the ground in their efforts to contain a wildfire. All firefighting aircraft in Texas follows strict state and federal guidelines for safety, operation, training and equipment.
Texas A&M Forest Service has two large portable airtanker bases; they located at Austin-Bergstorm International Airport and Abilene Regional Airport. Either base can be setup in 24-hours and are able to support ground operations for mixing and loading of fire retardant in heavy airtankers.
Singe engine airtanker bases can also be setup at other airports as conditions dictate. Agreements and equipment are in place for single engine airtanker bases in Abilene, Amarillo, Giddings, Fort Stockton, Mineral Wells and Frederickburg.
+ Single Engine Airtankers