ASOG Focus Area | News & Information
Source | Patrick Ryan
If you didn't know, from March 6th to 8th, 2024, the notable Aerial Firefighting series organized by Tangent-Link returned to Sacramento, California, home to the esteemed headquarters of CAL FIRE. The series originated in 2008 in Athens, Greece. The location of each series event bounces between N. America, Europe, and Australia.
The Aerial Firefighting Series offers attendees a platform for aerial firefighting presentations and insightful case studies, delving into critical themes such as Tactics, Training, and Technology. Bringing together top experts in aerial firefighting, the conference facilitated discussions on the latest advancements in this safety-focused profession, particularly emphasizing developments in the North American region.
Complementing the conference sessions, more than 49 exhibitors participated, showcasing the cutting-edge capabilities and services within aerial firefighting. Among the notable exhibitors were Coulson Aviation, Air Tracker Inc., and Bell Helicopter.
This event provided valuable opportunities for attendees, including Airborne Sensor Operators, to stay abreast of advancements in aerial firefighting, particularly in response to the escalating demand for enhanced remote sensing capabilities. Moreover, attendees had the chance to engage directly with industry experts, fostering knowledge exchange and learning from shared experiences.
Conference Program Takeaways
Based on attending most of the presentations over two days, which I thought were very interesting and relative to the ASO community, here are the big issues or takeaways from this year's program:
Climate Change and Extreme Weather Events - The increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires due to climate change pose significant challenges for aerial firefighting efforts. Drier conditions, prolonged fire seasons (12 months vs. six months), and extreme weather events create more volatile fire behavior and greater demand for firefighting resources.
Resource Constraints - Limited availability of aerial firefighting resources, including aircraft, pilots, and firefighting chemicals, are straining response capabilities during peak wildfire seasons. Competition for resources between regions or countries facing simultaneous wildfire outbreaks can sometimes exacerbate this challenge.
Safety Concerns - Safety remains a paramount concern for aerial firefighting operations. Risks associated with flying in hazardous conditions, low visibility, and turbulent air, coupled with the complexity of coordinating multiple aircraft in dynamic fire environments, underscore the importance of rigorous safety protocols and training programs.
Technology Integration and Innovation - While technological advancements, such as UASs and remote-sensing systems, offer promising solutions for enhancing aerial firefighting capabilities, integrating new technologies into existing firefighting systems and protocols presents logistical, operational, and regulatory challenges. Overcoming barriers to adoption and ensuring the reliability and effectiveness of emerging technologies are ongoing priorities.
Environmental Considerations - Aerial firefighting activities can have environmental impacts, such as water pollution, habitat destruction, and emissions from aircraft operations. Balancing the need for effective wildfire suppression with environmental conservation and sustainability goals requires careful planning, monitoring, and mitigation measures.
Interagency Coordination and Collaboration - Effective wildfire response relies on seamless coordination and collaboration among multiple agencies and organizations at local, regional, and national levels. Strengthening interagency partnerships, communication networks, and resource-sharing agreements is essential for optimizing firefighting efforts and maximizing efficiency and effectiveness.
Budgetary Constraints - Last but not least, local, state, and federal fiscal constraints continue to limit investment in wildfire prevention, preparedness, and suppression efforts, including aerial firefighting resources. Securing adequate funding and resources to support comprehensive wildfire management programs is essential for maintaining readiness and response capabilities in the face of increasing wildfire threats.
Exhibition Highlights
As mentioned before, over 49 exhibitors attended this year's event. However, of those 49, two were ASOG Corporate Supporters – Smith Myers and Oversight Imaging. Meeting their teams and discussing their latest efforts to support the aerial firefighting community was professionally fun & informative. Here are some fascinating takeaways from our discussions:
Smith Myers (ARTEMIS – Cell Phone Locator System), Peter Myers – CEO Smith Myers
According to Peter, even in low light/IMC/forest fire conditions, as shown here (left) with the ARTEMIS (Cell Phone Locator System) plugin to CarteNav AIMS ISR Mission System, ARTEMIS can provide crucial, fast, and accurate real-time visibility. This offers everyone involved a new level of critical situation awareness during fast-moving situations such as wildfires.
Additionally, ARTEMIS can identify and locate persons in distress and firefighting and rescue teams and display their locations in real-time. It is also possible for the ARTEMIS operator to pass aerial photographs or SMS directly to cellular handsets on the ground to offer them full situational awareness. Plus, ARTEMIS can receive SMS/calls from those needing assistance or support.
Overwatch Imaging, Niko Peha, Product Manager
Regarding aerial firefighting, Overwatch Imaging systems are playing an ever-growing role in enhancing the situational awareness of firefighting teams, enabling them to respond more effectively to wildfires and other emergencies. What I learned from the team at Overwatch Imaging is that they achieve this via their Smart Sensor systems and Automated Sensor Operator software. They aim to provide automated sensor systems, real-time data analysis, and actionable intelligence.
The Next Series
If you're interested in attending future events, Tangent Link announced on March 21st, 2024, after completing this year's Aerial Firefighting North America show, that the conference series will continue next year, with two global shows taking place in France (March 2025, Bordeaux) and Australia (August, Dubbo, in New South Wales).
The Final Takeaway
As the acting ASOG Desk Editor, the Aerial Firefighting Series is a must-attend event for anyone interested in aerial firefighting. Regarding the Airborne Sensor Operator profession, the Aerial Firefighting Series conference and exhibit offers a unique opportunity for ASOs to engage with the latest advancements, strategies, and best practices in aerial firefighting. With the increasing role of technology in wildfire detection, monitoring, and response, sensor operators are playing a growing role in enhancing situational awareness and supporting practical firefighting efforts from the air. By attending this event, ASOs can gain valuable insights, network with industry experts, and contribute to shaping the future of aerial firefighting.
For more information regarding Tangent Link and the Aerial Firefighting series, visit their website at https://www.tangentlink.com/
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