Contract aircraft: New Jersey State Forest Service

Yes, in spite of all the rain that we have had in New Jersey, our spring fire season is upon us. As I understand it, the contract start date for the NJ Forest Fire Service SEATs was pushed back a few days because of the wet winter. At this time of year, fuels can dry out quickly, especially when there are winds and/or low relative humidity.

The New Jersey Forest Fire Service (NJFFS) divides the State up into three divisions, division A is includes counties in northern NJ, division B is central NJ, and division C is southern NJ. For more information on this geography, current wildfire danger and restrictions including a map go this NJFFS webpage.

Contract SEAT aircraft go on contract starting March 31 around the State for 33 to 47 days depending on type of SEAT and location. This year, and as they did last year, the NJFFS has contracted for AgCats as well as two Air Tractor 602s. For more information including some links to photos and videos, go here.

A couple of weeks ago a tentative schedule for contract aircraft was posted here. As I understand it, the call signs -- alpha, bravo, and charlie -- for the aircraft refer to the division where they will be based. Two Agcats will be based in northern NJ (Div. A) at Aeroflex-Andover Airport from March 31 through May 9. One AgCat (Allaire Airport, 3/31 to 5/2) and one AT-602 (Miller, 3/31 to 5/16) will be based in central NJ (Div. B). Finally one AgCat (Hammonton Airport) and one AT-602 (Downstown Airport) will be based in southern NJ (Div. C) from March 31 through May 9.