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The Vital Role of Aerial Fire Fighting with NT Heli-Ops

Dylan McBean • May 16, 2024

The Vital Role of Aerial Fire Fighting with NT Heli-Ops

When wildfires rage, threatening lives, property, and precious natural landscapes, the team at NT Heli-Ops takes flight. Aerial fire fighting is a critical component of wildfire control, and NT Heli-Ops is your trusted partner in the fight against the flames.


Estimates of aerial fire fighting activity for recent bushfire seasons have been around four times higher than usual. NT Heli-Ops has been a critical force in numerous missions in the unique conditions of the Northern Territory. Our efforts have contributed to the containment and control of wildfires, preserving the natural beauty of the region.

The Aerial Advantage in Fighting Wildfires

Wildfires can spread rapidly, making it imperative to respond swiftly and effectively. There are several advantages offered from an aerial position:


Speed and Mobility: Helicopters and aircraft can quickly reach remote or difficult-to-access fire zones, allowing for rapid intervention.


Precision Drops: Aerial assets can deliver valuable crews and equipment to hard-to-reach areas in and around the flames to reduce the spread.

Safety for Ground Crews: An aerial approach can create safe zones for ground crews by suppressing the fire's advance and quickly extracting teams if needed.


Australian fire authorities state that aerial fire fighting remains the most effective protection method during bushfires. There is a significant reliance on aerial fire fighting and, Australian authorities are now planning to deploy these assets earlier in the season, not waiting for major outbreaks.

The Aerial Fire Fighting Experts

NT Heli-Ops is proud to provide specialised aerial services. Our highly skilled crew, swift deployment and commitment to safety precautions and regulations enable us to respond rapidly to fire emergencies. We follow tried and true fire fighting techniques to achieve successful results:


Water Drops: Our helicopters can carry large buckets filled with water, which are released directly onto the flames to curb the fire's intensity.

Quick Response & Insertion: Helicopters have the advantage of accessing rugged or remote terrain, reaching areas that ground crews may find difficult or impossible to access.


One common misconception about aerial fire fighting is that it involves dumping massive amounts of water indiscriminately. In reality, NT Heli-Ops focuses on precision drops and strategic interventions to effectively control and contain wildfires.


To learn more about our services and capabilities or to inquire about our services, contact NT Heli-Ops today.

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