By: Eric Johnson
A newly retrofitted Cal Fire air tanker is already proving its worth in the state’s firefighting efforts, having tackled more than a dozen fires in just three weeks. The C-130 Hercules, originally built in 1985 as a U.S. Coast Guard transport plane, has been converted into a firefighting air tanker capable of dropping large amounts of retardant on wildfires. Since its recent addition to the Cal Fire fleet, the aircraft has been deployed to combat fires in Sonoma, Solano, and Butte counties.
Cal Fire plans to receive six more C-130s from the federal government at no cost, with another expected to be operational in Fresno by the end of the year, and a third scheduled for San Diego’s Ramona air base in early 2025. According to Linnea Edmeier, Cal Fire’s aviation communications officer, this aircraft offers greater capacity and range compared to other planes in the fleet, enhancing their firefighting capabilities as the intensity of fire seasons continues to rise.
Since entering service on August 26, the retrofitted C-130 has fought 17 fires, including significant ones like the Two and Cougar Fires in Sonoma County and the Quincy Fire in Butte County. With its ability to carry 4,000 gallons of retardant—three times more than other tankers in the fleet—it can help create larger containment lines, making it a valuable resource in the battle against wildfires.
Edmeier highlighted the C-130’s ability to fly at higher altitudes and at greater speeds while being more fuel-efficient than some other aircraft. These factors are crucial as wildfire seasons have lengthened, putting a greater strain on firefighting resources. The plane, acquired by Cal Fire in January after delays due to the pandemic, underwent a six- to eight-month conversion process costing $6.5 million per aircraft.
The conversion involved installing a specialized tank, reinforcing the plane’s structure, and integrating hydraulic systems to release fire retardant. These retrofits were done by hand in phases by a team of specialists, ensuring each plane is carefully prepared for its firefighting mission.