The migration of the Super Scooper air tankers occurred for the 28th time when two CL-415s arrived this week at Van Nuys Airport in Los Angeles County.
The aircraft owned by the Province of Quebec are brought in for the Santa Ana east wind season that typically begins in the fall. Strong, dry, hot winds can lead to large, disastrous fires in densely populated areas of southern California.
The scoopers can load up to 1,600 gallons of water while skimming across the surface of a lake. If the water source is within ten miles, typically working in pairs they can drop a great deal of water on a fire.
Initial deployment typically lasts for approximately 90 days, but may be extended if a need for their assistance continues.
This year in a program paid for by Southern California Edison three counties will each have an additional large helicopter. Los Angeles and Orange Counties will have 3,000-gallon Boeing CH-47D Chinooks, and Ventura County will get a 1,000-gallon S-61. The program has been given a catchy name, Quick Reaction Force.
Supervisor @KathrynBarger joined @LACoFD Chief Daryl Osby to welcome Super Scoopers from Quebec, Canada, for the 28th year. The aircraft are valuable among the tools used to battle wildfires. pic.twitter.com/SVdoMuxki9
— Los Angeles County (@CountyofLA) September 3, 2021
Pretty impressive, these things are!
28 trips…just think of those logbook entries!!