Firefighting Aircraft Fuel Costs May Double In Montana

Private firefighting aircraft contractors, such as Dauntless, burned approximately $50 million in jet fuel last year. If current fire season trends continue, fuel expenditures are projected to nearly double to almost $100 million. Willis-Curdy, a retired firefighting aircraft pilot in Montana, noted that these planes are often pushed to their operational limits. Aerial firefighting companies may face fuel costs that double due to the high power and fuel consumption required for advanced maneuvers. Pilot Kurti, who spent 40 years fighting wildfires, noted that these maneuvers differ significantly from standard commercial flight profiles. Most aerial firefighting companies hold contracts that allow them to pass these increased fuel costs on to clients. Firefighting aviation fuel is expected to cost $45 million this year in Montana. The Forest Service has budgeted $45 million for fire aviation fuel this year, representing a $7 million decrease from last year's spending. This budget comes as several western states face potentially catastrophic wildfire seasons due to record dry winters. Forest Service, which manages most major wildfires in America, declined requests for an interview regarding the matter.