Helicopter Types

HELICOPTER TYPES
The following are characteristics of the three types of helicopters used in wildland fire. These factors are considered when a helicopter is ordered in relation to the missions they are expected to be flying.

 

Type 1 helicopter.

NPS Photo.

Type 1

15 or more passenger seats.
Carry up to 700 gallons of water.
Maximum weight for taking off or landing
12,501lbs or more.

 

Type 2 helicopter.

NPS Photo.

Type 2

9-14 passenger seats.
Carry up to 300 gallons of water.
Maximum weight for taking off or landing
6,000-12,500 lbs.

 

Type 3 helicopter.

NPS Photo.

Type 3

4-8 passenger seats.
Carry up to 100 gallons of water.
Maximum weight for taking off or landing is
up to 6,000 lbs

 

Information from the Interagency Helicopter Operations Guide, 2006.