Air tanker to fight bushfires
NSW communities will have stronger bushfire protection after the purchase of a 737 Fireliner Large Air Tanker (LAT).
The new LAT will provide fast, effective and flexible options for fighting fires and support firefighters on the ground.
It will deliver 15,000 litres of fire suppressants, transport around 70 firefighters and operate from a number of regional airports.
While winter traditionally is a time of year when LATs are not based in Australia, in recent years there has been a growing need for this type of aircraft year-round.
In winter 2018, Rural Fire Service firefighters responded to bushfires in Ulladulla and Port Stephens.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said during the last fire season there were more fires during winter than across the summer months.
“The NSW Government is committed to ensuring our firefighters have the tools they need to help protect lives and property,” Mr Elliott said.
The last of the contracted Large Air Tankers left NSW to return to the United States late last week.