Firefighting Helicopters combat fast moving wildfires with aggressive water tank refills and precise drops delivered by the S-64E Skycrane and the Sikorsky S-61A, two proven airframes known for their high payload, reliable systems, and consistent performance in demanding conditions.
Why these aircraft excel in wildfire operations
The S-64E and S-61A are frequently photographed hovering over lakes, rivers, and portable dip tanks as crews refill tanks or buckets between firelines. The S-64E is a heavy lift aerial crane designed for external payloads and a fixed firefighting tank, while the S-61A is a versatile medium lift platform often equipped with an external bucket or internal tank for direct attack and support missions.
The Skycrane traces its roots to the United States Army CH-54 program and remains in service through Erickson upgrades, while the S-61 family stems from civil versions of the Sea King with a long commercial history.
The S-64E Skycrane in firefighting
Sikorsky S-64E Skycrane
The S-64E is purpose built for external payload and tank operations. Erickson Aircrane acquired the type certificate and has introduced extensive upgrades, keeping the aircraft in global firefighting and construction roles.
It carries a fixed retardant or water tank with a documented capacity of about 2650 gal, refilling via a large snorkel in approximately forty five seconds, enabling rapid cycles on large fires.
The Sikorsky S-61A as a versatile firefighting asset
Sikorsky S-61A
The S 61A belongs to the civil S-61 family, including S-61L and S-61N variants. It has served in passenger transport, offshore support, search and rescue, and utility roles, remaining a dependable choice for firefighting with buckets or internal tanks.
Fire mission configurations
- External bucket operations are common, while internal tank systems hold around 1,000 gal for quick cycles.
- Utility specs highlight multirole capabilities, including crew transport and sling loads.
Operational insights for crews and planners
Sikorsky S-64E Skycrane
- Cycle efficiency. The S-64E’s rapid refill supports high tempo operations near the fireline. The snorkel works in shallow water, expanding options.
- Multirole flexibility. The S-61A transitions between buckets, cargo slings, and support missions.
- Program history. The S-64 and S-61 lineages explain their firefighting adaptations.
Quick Lake Refill by the S-61A Firefighting Helicopter
This 15-second clip captures a Sikorsky S-61A firefighting helicopter rising from a lake with its refill snorkel visible after a rapid water intake. The smooth lift-off showcases the aircraft’s precision and speed, vital for keeping wildfire suppression operations on pace.
The enduring role of these firefighting helicopters
The Sikorsky S-64E Skycrane and S-61A continue to stand out as indispensable aerial firefighting assets, each bringing unique strengths to wildfire suppression. The Skycrane’s exceptional lift capacity and lightning-fast refill cycles make it ideal for tackling large, fast-moving blazes, while the S-61A’s versatility allows it to adapt to a variety of fireground needs.
Sikorsky S-61 comes in behind S-64 Skycrane
Together, they provide a balanced combination of power, precision, and operational flexibility that supports crews in protecting communities and natural landscapes when every second counts.
Expert Helicopter Support for Wildfire Suppression
Contact Fair Lifts today, or call Ana Stevenson at (470) 462-2225 to discuss aerial firefighting support or specialized helicopter operations. Our team provides precision helicopter services for wildfire suppression, water tank refills, and other mission-critical aerial projects, managing everything from FAA coordination to rapid deployment in challenging environments.
Photos and video provided by Ed Luke.