Transitioned Fleet Expected to Enter Service by 2027 Wildfire Season

On December 3, Neptune Aviation Services revealed that it has begun transitioning its aerial firefighting platform to the Airbus A319. The provider is working alongside Aerotec & Concept to convert the aircraft, slated for completion by 2027’s wildfire season.

Neptune currently utilizes a fleet of BAe 146 tankers, capable of carrying 3,000 of fire retardant or water and being turned around in just 8 minutes. The company purchased its first BAe 146 in 2010 and now operates around nine. Though the aircraft is not the fastest or most efficient by modern standards, it has managed to get the job done during its 14 years of service.

“The BAe 146 is very maneuverable which makes it an excellent aircraft for operations over challenging terrain,” explained Ryan Baer, Neptune Aviation’s Chief Pilot. “It also has reliable slow speed characteristics with a speed brake that is deployable during a drop.”

Neptune began researching fleet upgrades in 2022. The choice was not taken lightly, as the team needed to carefully analyze airframes, simulate retardant drops, and find an engineering partner. Two years later, the company landed on the Airbus A319.

The A319 is, for the first time, being converted to meet wildlife firefighting needs under a partnership between Neptune and Aerotec & Concept. The pair expect to have the first aircraft ready-to-go for the 2027 wildfire season.

The aircraft will increase the retardant/water capacity by 1,500 gallons, providing a 4,500-gallon total capacity. The A319 also has larger fuel tanks, advanced avionics, and additional safety features, allowing Neptune to more effectively service remote fires.

“As the leader in aerial firefighting, we are always focused on continuous improvement,” stated Jennifer Draughon, President of Neptune Aviation. “The Airbus A319’s larger size and higher maximum takeoff weight allow for greater fire retardant capacity, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing the safety of our crews, firefighters on the ground, and the communities we protect.”

The transition from the BAe 146 to the A319 fleet will occur over several years. Neptune hopes to eventually operate 10-15 aircraft, a mix between both, in total.

FMI: www.neptuneaviation.com