A large fleet of firefighting aircraft are ready to respond to bushfires across north-east Victoria and help protect communities and the environment.
The aircraft will be used by Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic), Country Fire Authority (CFA) and Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) to respond to fires and other emergencies.
FFMVic Deputy Chief Fire Officer Aaron Kennedy said aircraft played a critical role when responding to fires.
"On high fire danger days, as soon as the call goes out to respond, firebombing aircraft will be dispatched so we can hit fires hard and fast and keep them small," Mr Kennedy said.
“North-east Victoria is one of the most fire-prone areas in the world and this impressive aircraft fleet will work together to deliver an effective fire suppression operation.”
“Aircraft work hand-in-hand with firefighters to contain fires both on private property and public land.”
“Dispatching the aircraft with ground crews, fire trucks and bulldozers increases our ability to rapidly contain or limit the size and spread of fires.”
“This helps keep communities, and the environment, safe.”
Aircraft have already played a key role during the recent flood response with more than 1800 aircraft movements since October 1 transporting resources and surveying affected areas.
Aircraft are strategically placed across the state and can be moved quickly to respond to fires which threaten life and property.
The aircraft stationed at Mangalore is an Airbus AS332L1 Super Puma.
It is equipped with a long-line bucket with a 4000-litre capacity.
The aircraft can carry up to 19 passengers and be used for transporting firefighters to remote area fires.