ST. PAUL, MINN. – The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will replace its two (2) Bombardier CL-215 water bomber firefighter aircraft they have used for the past 14 years, with six (6) modern, cost-effective Fire Boss aircraft.
Equipped with Wipaire amphibious floats, Air Tractor’s AT-802F “Fire Boss” adds yet another dimension of capability for firefighters. It can scoop 800 gallons of water in 12-15 seconds and be off the water and on its way again to the front lines in as few as 20-30 seconds. With the ability to work as a land-based aircraft or water scooper, the “Fire Boss” can drop an initial load of retardant, then remain close to a fire by scooping water from a nearby lake.
The Fire Boss is equipped with a 1600 hp Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67F engine.
Wipaire, Inc. is headquartered at Fleming Field – South St. Paul Airport in South St. Paul, Minn.