Up to 15 Aircraft Will Fight Wildfires in Cyprus This Year

This year, Cyprus will deploy up to 15 aircraft to combat wildfires. The government has prepared a comprehensive plan for the upcoming fire season, which is expected to be particularly hot due to the ongoing drought.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture and the Department of Forests, 11 of the 15 firefighting planes and helicopters are already stationed on the island and ready for action. The remaining four aircraft will be provided to the government under specific conditions.

As reported by Philenews, four firefighting planes were reserved from last season and have been under the Department of Forests' control since April 1. An additional two will become available starting in May.

The Department of Forests also has access to a privately owned pneumatic tractor, which can be called into service if needed. It is currently undergoing repairs but is expected to be operational again soon.

In addition, two air tractors arrived from Jordan in late March, as part of an intergovernmental agreement to provide support during fire suppression efforts. Under the same agreement, Jordan could send an additional two firefighting helicopters to Cyprus if necessary.

It was also reported that the authorities were close to finalizing an agreement with another country for the leasing of two high-performance helicopters specifically for forest fire suppression.

Meanwhile, a tender for the rental of two Kamov-32 FLOGA 1 and 2 helicopters—expected to arrive in May—is still pending. The company awarded the contract has filed an appeal against the decision.

In total, at least five aircraft will be ready for immediate deployment this month, with up to 11 aircraft on duty starting in May.