VIH Aviation Group, a Canadian helicopter operator, is set to deploy the world’s first Sikorsky S-92 firefighting helicopter. Once operational, it will be used for firefighting missions across Western Canada.
“We have partnered with Milestone to introduce the first ever utility-configured Sikorsky S-92A helicopter into the Canadian commercial market,” Jen Norie, Chief Operating Officer of VIH Helicopters, told local media. “This aircraft is specifically intended to support government agencies in wildfire suppression.”
The Sikorsky S-92 is a medium-lift helicopter generally used for offshore operations in the oil and gas industry. VIH modified the Sikorsky S-92 with a 5,000-liter (1,320-US gallon) tank, vertical reference window, digital FM radio, and remote torque indicator. Additionally, equipment was removed, including rafts, floats, and navigation equipment not required for VFR flight.
Milestone Aviation Group previously collaborated with Helitak Firefighting Equipment to develop and certify the FT5000 fire tank for the Sikorsky S-92A helicopter. The tank has been certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) with a Supplemental Type Certificate.
After receiving FAA approval, the helicopter was transferred to VIH for a trial firefighting mission. The aircraft was used to combat wildfire near Victoria, British Columbia, on July 28, 2024.
“Initial testing showed the aircraft performed well and the speed, tank capacity and accuracy of the drops make this aircraft a very attractive option for wildfire agencies,” Norie added.
According to VIH, the helicopter will be fully ready for firefighting operations by August 3, 2024.
The company plans to convert two more S-92 helicopters for the upcoming 2025 wildfire season.
