Neel Mehta
BAE Systems will help four companies modify aircraft for conversion programs, through which the company intends to establish U.S. Type 1 Airtanker fleets in North America.
Canadian firms Air Spray Aviation Services, Conair Group Inc. and Tronos Plc/Neptune Aviation Services as well as U.S.-based Minden Air have acquired the BAe 146/Avro RJ plane, BAE said Tuesday.
The four-engine jet is designed for steep approach landings and performance features that are slated to be remodeled for special missions, such as wildfire supression.
Mark Taylor, BAE’s regional aircraft business director of engineering, said the company will work to design and engineer the aircraft for individual preferences and requirements of customers.
Ten units are currently being modified as Type 1 Airtankers under the aircraft conversion program.
The U.S. Forest Service has recorded 48 wildfire incidents in the country so far this year.
