JACKSON, Wyo. — According to the Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF), Very Large Air Tankers (VLATs), or large air tankers, aren’t being used to fight the Pack Trail Fire due to unique terrain and limited effectiveness.
BTNF’s Facebook post on Oct. 14 confirms that VLATS are “incredibly effective tools in the right conditions.” However, terrain challenges that come from the steep and rugged landscape makes it difficult for VLATS to safely maneuver; BTNF writes that the size and speed of VLATS make them better suited for more open landscapes.
In the case of the Pack Trail Fire, helicopters and smaller aircraft are considered more precise in delivering water and retardant.
BTNF also says VLATS are less effective to slow the spread of a fire in dense forests like those in the BTNF and Shoshone National Forest areas. The Pack Trail Fire’s intensity — burning through timber and brush beneath the heavy tree canopy — makes aerial drops less impactful.
According to BTNF, success in the Pack Trail Fire is relying heavily on fire fighters constructing fire lines, using strategic firing operations and engaging directly with the fire.
“While air support plays a role, ultimately, it’s the boots-on-the-ground work that makes the biggest difference in containing the fire,” BTNF writes.
However, BTNF notes many areas within the Pack Trail Fire’s footprint are difficult to access, with hazards that make it unsafe for firefighters to work in. Because of this, as the fire progresses, BTNF writes crews are continuously assessing the situation and will deploy the most effective tools. This means that the need for VLAT support may occur, and becomes a matter of availability.
“There are few large tankers and even fewer VLAT,” BTNF says. “Support is provided on a ranking scale with the highest priority fires topping the list.”
Smaller fixed-wing and helicopter support is confirmed to be more readily available for assignment to a specific fire like the Pack Trail Fire.
Read the latest fire update here.
