Warbird Information Exchange

I was wondering if any HU-16's were ever used for fire bombers?

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The later production long winged ''Bs" used a 10 foot long mid spar splice which is the time limiting issue on late model HU-16's ( which is why you don't see many, if any of them flying). Doubtful that even when new, the wings could handle the forces imposed by doing repetative retardant drops, also not too certain of the Albtrosses useful load limits.


And now, over to the Albatross experts-

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No expert, just a question...would the G-111s fare any better?
Also, it's a big heavy aircraft, I'd think a re-engining program would also be needed.

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The G-111 is equipped with titanium spars which removes the life limitation of the original spars. There were also a couple of other mods done to make the G-111 which allow it to be certified in the Standard Category, but I don't know that it would be the most cost-effective use of money to re-engineer the hull to allow the scoops/doors and tanks etc. that are required. Especially when CL-215s/415s are so readily available.

As far as re-engine-ing it goes, there was one that was done with RR Darts by Conroy, but I believe that was recently cut up. I'm sure it wouldn't be too hard to mount a couple of PT-6s, but again... it might be easier to just buy a CL-415.

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I agree, but I'd bet the Albatross could carry more water...

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Remember the vets, the wonderful planes they flew and their sacrifices for a future many of them did not live to see.

Something else to throw into the mix, the USFS has publicly stated that no ex fixed wing anythings can be used to fight fires on Federal lands. Helicopters are OK. I've always looked at fighting a forest fire with helicopters ( not taking anything away from helo crews) as trying to put out a huge lumberyard fire with a squirtgun.
The USFS has also publicly stated that the ONLY fixed wing aircraft they would consider is one designed to their exact specifications and no derivations allowed. At that point in my mind I picture aircraft designed by politicians who've never started a bar-b-que and, like most big wigs have no idea on earth what's needed, that vision is then replaced by seeing fleets of French AMIOT between wars bombers, where bombing was done by committee, all wearing USFS decals. THat's why people have been trying unsucessfully, to get people interested in 747 and DC-10 tankers.
Because no manufacturer is going to build only 20 or so airframes.

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