The State of Colorado announced that it has selected Neptune Aviation for an exclusive use contract for a large firefighting air tanker. “Neptune Aviation is pleased to partner with Colorado’s Division of Fire Prevention & Control,” said Neptune Aviation President Jennifer Draughon. “The contract award validates the dedication of the entire Neptune team of pilots, mechanics, engineers and support staff.”
Colorado’s exclusive use contract is a one multi-year contract for a period not to exceed five years. The initial master contract will be for one year and may be renewed for four additional one-year periods. Vince Welbaum - DFPC Aviation Unit Chief made the following statement: "DFPC is excited to have Neptune as the contractor of choice to support the State with an airtanker.
We anticipate a busy year in 2021 and are looking forward to providing this aerial attack resource to support wildfires for the residents and visitors of Colorado.” Neptune Aviation will utilize a British Aerospace BAe 146 aircraft capable of carrying 3000 gallons of fire retardant while cruising at over 400 knots at altitudes of up to 28,000 feet.
“Neptune Aviation is familiar with the challenging firefighting environment in Colorado with more than 25 years of experience flying on fires in the state. The BAe-146’s outstanding maneuverability, operational safety, and excellent field performance make the aircraft a great addition to Colorado’s firefighting assets.”
“From a firefighting readiness standpoint, having a large air tanker positioned in Colorado is a great resource for the state when dangerous wildfires threaten lives and property,” Draughon said. “An exclusive use contract guarantees that Colorado will have a Neptune large air tanker on site for what is predicted to be a very active wildfire season.”
About Neptune Aviation Missoula, Montana based Neptune Aviation is the most reliable and innovative aerial firefighting company in the nation. As the primary provider of large airtanker services to the United States Forest Service for more than 25 years, Neptune Aviation has proven to be an invaluable partner. Neptune Aviation employs a proficient cadre of A&P mechanics, FAA certificated repairmen and pilots who meticulously maintain and operate a fleet of 9 BAe 146 firefighting aircraft. Unwavering in our commitment to recurrent training and quality assurance and adhering to the most stringent safety standards in the industry, Neptune Aviation is proud to serve our nation’s ground wildfire crews as the undisputed leader in the aerial firefighting industry.
