PORT ALBERNI, BC, April 2, 2020 /CNW/ - Coulson Aviation
USA has been awarded a multi-year
contract with the USDA Forest Service for Next Generation Large Air
Tanker Services throughout the United
States. The contract beginning in 2020 will see the first
Boeing 737, Tanker 137 in operation.
Coulson Aviation is the first in the world to modify Boeing
737's into FIRELINER's which utilize a new advanced delivery system
specifically designed for this application, the RADS-XXL/2. To
convert a 737 into a FIRELINER takes over 43,000-man hours and
includes the RADS-XXL/2 installation, avionics upgrades, full strip
and re-paint, new interior, and 72 refurbished passenger seats.
Once complete, the FIRELINER is differentiated from all other Next
Generation Large Airtankers by its ability to transport
firefighters without re-configuration and to fly at maximum speeds
and altitudes with a load of retardant and no restrictions.
"This firefighting repurposed Boeing 737 was designed,
manufactured and had the installation of the tanking system done in
house which is a testament to the creativity of our teams led by
Britt Coulson." Wayne Coulson, CEO Coulson Group "I could not be prouder of our
Company based on all the dedication, hard work and commitment of
teams to design, manufacture, build, operate and maintain this
superior air tanker. Both our Lockheed C-130's and Boeing 737
FIRELINER's played keys roles in saving homes and lives in
Australia this past devastating
fire season which we are all proud of."
"The FIRELINER is truly the Next Generation of Next Generation
Large Airtankers" said Britt
Coulson, President and COO Coulson
Aviation. "The FIRELINER's are a perfect complement to our
C-130's and having a diverse fleet assures our customers always
have the right airtanker for the mission."
Coulson Aviation has over 36 years of experience in aerial fire
suppression and the Coulson RADS Firefighting Systems were designed
to make firefighting easier, safer and more effective than other
systems. We are excited to continue supporting the USDA Forest
Service with this essential service during the US fire season.
About Coulson Aviation (USA)
Inc.: Coulson Aviation is a family owned business with
global operations in Australia,
Canada, Chile, and the
United States with its diverse fleet of heavy Fixed and
Rotary wing aircraft. In addition to its aerial firefighting,
emergency response, and oil spill dispersant operations Coulson is
also a world leader in technology and engineering with the largest
aerospace design team in Western
Canada focusing primary on special mission modifications.
Coulson's latest design, the RADS-L for the Boeing CH-47D
helitanker is the largest capacity, lightest weight, highest flow
rate helicopter tank in the world. More information can be found on
the company website: www.coulsonaviationusa.com.
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SOURCE Coulson Aviation (USA)
Inc.