Helicopter Logistics is excited to announce the recent awarding of a 10-year fixed-wing contract by the Department of Biosecurity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA). This contract will encompass a variety of activities, including:
- Land management
- Crew transport
- Aerial ignition for prescribed burns
- Bushfire mapping
- Air attack support for bushfire operations
Kodiak Fixed-Wing Aircraft: A Game Changer
To fulfill this contract, Helicopter Logistics has invested in a multi-million dollar Kodiak fixed-wing aircraft. The turbine-engine Kodiak offers significant advantages over the traditional Airvan, which is typically used in our fleet. With a cruising speed of 173 knots compared to 110 knots for the Airvan, the Kodiak also boasts an impressive endurance of 8 hours, doubling the Airvan’s 4-hour capacity.
This enhanced capability allows the DBCA to efficiently cover large distances, a crucial need for rapid response during emergencies. For instance, during summer months, the Midwest, Wheatbelt, and Goldfields regions often experience numerous lightning strikes that can lead to serious bushfire incidents. The Kodiak enables swift mobilization to assess fire conditions and implement necessary actions to mitigate impacts.
Matt Corbett, Head of Flight Operations and Managing Director of Helicopter Logistics, noted, “Just two months ago, a series of lightning strikes occurred in Kalbarri. The Kodiak, stationed at Bunbury Airport, was able to quickly deploy with a DBCA team to Kalbarri, assess the situation, and return to Bunbury—a distance of about 800 nautical miles—without the need for refuelling, that’s a real game changer.”
The Kodiak is particularly suited for aerial ignition tasks in the Southwest and is based in Bunbury to support DBCA centres in Perth, Bunbury, Manjimup, Albany, and Esperance. “We’re discovering that the Kodiak is being utilized far more due to its versatile capabilities. It’s a short takeoff and landing (STOL) aircraft, ideal for small bush airstrips and its turbine engine provided that added level of safety,” Matt added.
“We are proud to be the first commercial operators of the Kodiak in Australia, and our investment is proving to deliver significant value for the DBCA.”
