The versatile and much-loved Boeing 747 has now proved itself as a vital weapon against large-scale blazes. Frédéric Marsaly details how the type has been modified to undertake the aerial firefighting role.
Evergreen Tanker 979 makes a demonstration drop in 2009 at Châteauroux, France.
Frédéric Marsaly
Uncontrolled blazes ripping across vast areas of inaccessible and often mountainous country are a nightmare for firefighters. They put their lives at risk trying to save people and their homes and businesses as flames leap through tinder-dry trees and undergrowth. In such cases firefighting aircraft can be a vital tool.
