VIDEO: Wildfire season brings specialized aircraft to the skies above the Pacific Northwest, and some of the most effective firefighting tools are operating right out of Richland Airport. Fire Boss single-engine air tankers, which may resemble crop dusters at first glance, pack significant firefighting capabilities that make them invaluable weapons against flames. These aircraft can scoop up to 800 gallons of water in just 15 seconds, with more than 150 currently in service worldwide.
Several Fire Boss planes are based in Richland, taking advantage of the airport’s strategic location next to the Columbia River for quick water access. “The terrain here in the Northwest can be challenging at times with the temperatures and the density altitude, and a lot of that takes into account the scoop technique and where we’re at in speeds,” said Brandon Griffel, chief pilot at Henry’s Aerial.
The challenging conditions in the air can push these aircraft to their operational limits, according to Griffel. Hot weather and wind conditions affect aircraft performance, while busy airspace filled with helicopters and other aircraft creates additional challenges for pilots rushing to fire scenes. “When the winds are out and it’s hot, the performance of the aircraft is usually at its limits. You’re getting a lot of fire traffic in the area, with the helicopters and other units. Everybody is rushing to the sounds of the guns to get there and put the fire out,” Griffel said.
