Cargolux diversifies into aerial firefighting
15 / 01 / 2024
Source: Cargolux
Cargolux has launched a new aerial firefighting business unit in response to extreme weather patterns.
The freighter operator’s Aquarius Aerial Firefighting (Aquarius AFF) will operate a fleet of 12 Air Tractor AT-802F Fire Boss aircraft, which will be acquired over a three-year period.
The first three of the aircraft have already been delivered.
Explaining the decision to diversify away from air cargo, Cargolux said that there was a capacity shortfall for aerial firefighting in Europe and also further afield.
Cargolux president and chief executive Richard Forson said: “The inauguration of Aquarius Aerial Firefighting as a new business unit of Cargolux is an exciting new chapter in the company’s history.
“Over the past years, we have witnessed wildfires becoming a growing global issue that requires a rapid response. Not only do such fires emit significant amounts of CO2 but they pose a significant danger to lives and livelihoods.”
The company added that extreme weather patterns, global warming and their consequences, such as wildfires, are an increasing issue for global communities.
“Aquarius AFF aims to provide assistance in the fight against devastating wildfires that threaten human lives, natural resources and significantly contributes to global CO2 emissions,” Cargolux said.
