NVIS and Tank Equipped Sikorsky S-61N Aircraft Battling Fires in Western Canada (UPDATED)

UPDATE (August 23, 2024): BC Wildfire Service have produced a video showcasing Canadian Helicopters’ NVIS firefighting service. Watch: How we use night vision technology

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May 30, 2024:  For the 2024 wildfire season, Canadian Helicopters has upgraded two of its Sikorsky S61N helicopters with enhanced firefighting capabilities.

Both aircraft are now equipped with a Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS) and a belly tank with a carrying capacity of 900 US gallons, which enable the crew to operate at night wearing Night Vision Goggles (NVG).   NVIS/NVG allows the aircraft and crew to continue fighting active wildfires into the overnight period.  Prior to this technology, wildfire suppression activities would have been paused until the daylight hours.

NVGs can also detect heat sources thanks to their sensitivity in the near infrared spectrum which allows pilots to accurately focus their retardant drops at the source of the fire.  Night operations offer enhanced conditions in terms of lighter winds, cooler temperatures, and higher relative humidity which decreases fire activity.  Combined with the near absence of other air traffic, the operation proves effective in protecting critical assets.

Since early May, both aircraft have been working on fire suppression activities in the northern parts of British Columbia and Alberta.