Captain RK Smithley, a pilot with 10Tanker, flies McDonnell Douglas DC-10 fire bombers for firefighting missions in California. As a third-generation firefighter turned pilot, he now operates one of the largest air tankers in the Forest Service’s arsenal. In January, Smithley and his team are tackling unprecedented wildfires near Los Angeles, facing challenges like high winds, complex terrain, and drones. The DC-10 can drop 85,000 pounds of fire retardant on targets, making it an essential tool in fighting the fires. Despite the off-season timing, Smithley’s team works in coordinated efforts with other tanker crews, air traffic controllers, mechanics, and ground firefighters to protect lives and property. However, drones flying in the area pose a significant safety risk, leading to disruptions in firefighting operations. They urge drone operators to stay clear of the airspace to ensure the effectiveness of their missions. As they continue their efforts in challenging conditions, Smithley and his team remain dedicated to supporting ground firefighters and communities in need.
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Photo credit www.yahoo.com
A Pilot Takes on CA Wildfires from a Tanker Plane: Maneuvers Unprecedented in Commercial Aviation
