More than 170 people were killed during last year's Australian fire season. That's a massive human tragedy by any measure, made worse by the fact that many died in their homes despite having fire plans in place. The reality is that wild fires are just that - wild, with a voracious appetite for dry brush and any other fuel and liable in any windswept instant to change direction, expand, explode and devour.
Australia had the worst of it last year, but go to Greece, Spain or southern California and hear similar stories of fear, loss and helplessness in what often seems like a hopeless battle against an elemental force. So, it's welcome news that the state of Victoria is looking to bring in a new weapon this fire season.
The obvious value of Boeing 747 or McDonnell Douglas DC-10 derived supertankers is to lay down huge amounts of water or retardant. However, they are not as accurate or speedy as smaller aircraft that make quick scoop-and-drop runs. And, they must be based at an airport, with a big enough runway and infrastructure to fill and refill them. Local conditions may support or hinder their use, and finance is a significant political issue.
Supertankers clearly won't end the devastation, but they may help tip the balance in favour of control.
One thing is certain, though. In California, Mediterranean Europe and other at-risk regions, firefighting experts will be anxious to learn from Australia.
Source: Flight International
