Australian water-bombing helicopter deployed against fire in Landes

A fire broke out in Landes, devastating over 1,000 hectares of vegetation. To support efforts to combat this fire, a Chinook CH-47D water-bombing helicopter was loaned by Australia and carried out its first water drop on Friday, August 14.

The helicopter, capable of dropping over 11,000 liters of water in a single pass, was deployed alongside other aircraft such as the Canadair, Dash, and Air Tractor, which are also participating in the battle against the flames.

According to reports, this helicopter can carry nearly twice as much water as a Canadair, making its use particularly effective in such interventions.

Additionally, the fire has forced the evacuation of residents in Luglon, a small village of 350 inhabitants located in the heart of the Landes de Gascogne forest.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as aircraft, including the Chinook, carry on their efforts to control the fire.