Airbus Foundation supports Bolivian efforts to fight fires in Amazon
More than 500 water tonnes have been dropped by two H125 helicopters operated by HeliAmerica
Toulouse – The Airbus Foundation, in collaboration with the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs’ Crisis and Support Centre is supporting Bolivia’s efforts against the severe fires currently affecting the country.
An Airbus A330neo test aircraft transported 38 firefighters of the French Civil Security and equipment from Vatry, France, to Bolivia. They will participate in fighting the fires which have already ravaged more than two million hectares of the Bolivian Amazon.
In cooperation with HeliAmerica, a Bolivian helicopter operator based in St. Cruz department, the Airbus Foundation has offered 45 helicopter flight hours to assess the affected areas. The aircraft have also been used to actively fight the fires with the help of the “bamby bucket” equipment, which can drop up to 800 litres of water per trip.
During the 3, 4 and 5 September two single engine H125s operated in the area of Concepción, in the Eastern part of the country, dropping more than 500 tonnes of water. The operation has contributed to limit the fires and to prevent them from getting into the communities in the area. Some additional flight hours will be confirmed in the next days.
About the Airbus Foundation
The Airbus Foundation, chaired by Guillaume Faury, CEO of Airbus, includes Airbus, Airbus Helicopters and Airbus Defence and Space as founding and contributing members. It is the company’s vehicle for corporate philanthropy, using the group’s resources, aeronautic and space products, competencies, diverse workforce and culture for driving innovation to address societal issues. In particular, the Foundation supports the global humanitarian community and inspires and prepares young people for the challenges of tomorrow. Since its launch in May 2008, the Airbus Foundation has facilitated more than 70 relief or goodwill flights to numerous destinations around the globe. More information can be found at: https://www.airbus.com/company/airbus-foundation.html
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