Aviation

Texas A&M Forest Service acquires three new multi-mission aircraft for aviation fleet.

Multi-mission aircraft are used for wildfire detection, reconnaissance and situational awareness. They detect wildfires early and monitor fire behavior in real time. By providing incident commanders with accurate imagery of the entire incident, these aircraft enable more informed decision-making and help crews use resources more effectively .   The aircraft can be pre-positioned in central locations and are quick in response time. They can also support other all-hazard events.   Agency purchased multi-mission aircraft  In July 2026, we purchased three Bridger King […]

Texas A&M Forest Service is building a state-managed fleet of wildland firefighting aircraft, beginning with the purchase of two SUBARU Bell 412EPX helicopters.

Through its partnership with the Texas Military Department, Texas A&M Forest Service expands its aviation capabilities to respond to emerging incidents across the state.

Aviation assets provide intelligence to fire managers, can reach inaccessible areas, carry large volumes of water and retardant to slow the spread and reduce the intensity of wildfires, and work at a rapid pace to minimize damage to structures and property.   Firefighting aircraft in Texas follow strict state and federal guidelines for safety, operation, training, and equipment. We currently obtain firefighting aircraft through a Call-When-Needed agreement with […]

On Friday, a helicopter delivering water to the 150-acre Barth Fire in Caldwell County almost collided with a drone that came within feet of the aircraft.

Buster Robinson, Texas A&M Forest Service Incident Aviation Operations Officer, turned a childhood love of aviation into a 10-year military career flying Chinook helicopters for the Army National Guard.

Texas A&M Forest Service has opened a single engine air tanker base in Alpine, Texas to assist with wildfire response across the state.

Texas A&M Forest Service acquires three new multi-mission aircraft for aviation fleet.

Texas A&M Forest Service is building a state-managed fleet of wildland firefighting aircraft, beginning with the purchase of two SUBARU Bell 412EPX helicopters.

Through its partnership with the Texas Military Department, Texas A&M Forest Service expands its aviation capabilities to respond to emerging incidents across the state.

On Friday, a helicopter delivering water to the 150-acre Barth Fire in Caldwell County almost collided with a drone that came within feet of the aircraft.

Buster Robinson, Texas A&M Forest Service Incident Aviation Operations Officer, turned a childhood love of aviation into a 10-year military career flying Chinook helicopters for the Army National Guard.

Texas A&M Forest Service has opened a single engine air tanker base in Alpine, Texas to assist with wildfire response across the state.

Multi-mission aircraft are used for wildfire detection, reconnaissance and situational awareness. They detect wildfires early and monitor fire behavior in real time. By providing incident commanders with accurate imagery of the entire incident, these aircraft enable more informed decision-making and help crews use resources more effectively .   The aircraft can be pre-positioned in central locations and are quick in response time. They can also support other all-hazard events.   Agency purchased multi-mission aircraft  In July 2026, we purchased three Bridger King […]

Aviation assets provide intelligence to fire managers, can reach inaccessible areas, carry large volumes of water and retardant to slow the spread and reduce the intensity of wildfires, and work at a rapid pace to minimize damage to structures and property.   Firefighting aircraft in Texas follow strict state and federal guidelines for safety, operation, training, and equipment. We currently obtain firefighting aircraft through a Call-When-Needed agreement with […]