Erickson Air-Crane to support Australian National Aerial Firefighting Centre

Erickson Air-Crane (EAC), a provider of aviation services to commercial and government customers, has been awarded a contract to support National Aerial Firefighting Centre (NAFC) operations in Australia.

Under the multi-year aerial firefighting contract, Erickson will partner with Kestrel Aviation to provide six Aircrane Helitankers helicopters.

The three-year contract has a total value of approximately $60m and has two optional one-year extensions as well as option for additional aircraft if required, based on fire conditions and pending aircraft availability.

Erickson chief executive officer Udo Rieder said Erickson will continue relationship with the NAFC, one of the practitioners of aerial firefighting and will maintain a deep and established presence in Australia with this contract.

"Our newest partner in the region, Kestrel Aviation – with whom we’re teaming to provide the full range of diversified aerial support – is an established helicopter company with deep experience fighting fire in the rugged Australian environment," Rieder added.

The six S-64 Aircrane helicopters will be fitted with 2,650-gallon fire suppression system, a detachable water tank with multiple refill options and eight coverage levels for targeted fire suppression.

Following delivery, two Aircranes will be stationed in Victoria, two in New South Wales, one in South Australia, and one in Western Australia.