Coulson Aviation, in partnership with BRYSA, signed a contract with Chile’s National Forestry Corporation (CONAF) to strengthen wildfire fighting capabilities for the 2024 season. At the core of this effort is the arrival in Chile of the Lockheed C-130 Hercules, a proven asset in wildfire suppression.
The capabilities of the C-130 Hercules
The C-130 Hercules brings unparalleled versatility to Chile’s firefighting fleet. With the ability to operate from short and unpaved airstrips, this aircraft ensures coverage in remote and hard-to-reach areas during emergency operations.
Its impressive payload capacity allows it to deliver large volumes of water or retardant quickly and efficiently, making it an invaluable tool for combating large-scale wildfires. Although the aircraft arrived in Santiago, on the morning of Saturday the 14th, it took off for María Dolores Airfield in Los Ángeles, southern Chile, which will serve as its operational base.
A second tanker aircraft joins our fleet to fight wildfires 🛩️
The Hercules C-130 can fly over complex terrain at low speed and altitude, allowing for very precise water or retardant drops. #ChileSePrepara pic.twitter.com/1dbwDDwNH8— Government of Chile (@GobiernodeChile) December 15, 2024
A coordinated approach to fire management
The C-130 will be part of a comprehensive strategy that includes other specialized aircraft, such as the Boeing 737 FireLiner and the Cessna Citation Air Attack. While the C-130 focuses on direct suppression efforts, the Citation Air Attack will play a crucial role in mission coordination and operational safety.
A key investment in forest protection
Britton Coulson, president and chief operating officer of Coulson Aviation, expressed confidence in the aircraft’s ability to address the challenges posed by increasingly severe fire seasons in Chile.
With its proven track record and advanced capabilities, the C-130 Hercules is set to significantly enhance Chile’s ability to protect its forests, wildlife, and communities from the devastating impact of wildfires.
