About the Bell 209 "Cobra" Firewatch Helicopter

 I learned about a new to me helicopter today, the Bell 209 "Cobra" Firewatch Helicopter, tail # 107Z. This Firewatch helicopter is owned by the US Forest Service and operated on contract by Dynacorp. She is used as an air attack platform with a crew of two, a pilot and an air attack group supervisor. I learned about this Firewatch helicopter from a video by the U.S. Forest Service, courtesy of E Abramson and shared on the U.S. Forest Service Sierra National Forest Facebook page. I am going to share this video, just over six minutes with you. 

You will hear from Scott Beck, pilot of 107Z, ATGS Matt Lynde, Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS), and GIS Tech Michelle Schilling. Not only did I enjoy learning about this Firewatch helicopter and her team, but I especially enjoyed hearing Matt Lynde talk about being an ATGS. 107Z is equipped with Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR), providing intelligence. 

You may not be able to see the Facebook video if you have tracking protection enabled on your browser. If you do not want to disable your tracking protection (understandable), the direct link that I supplied should work and the video should appear at the top of your screen.

Direct link to video on Facebook

I hope you enjoy this video, I know that I did. Stay safe everyone.