11 June 2025: In a major expansion of its aerial firefighting capability, McDermott Aviation, Australia’s largest private natural Disaster Responders, has today announced their plans to bolster its capability to help in times of crisis with the introduction of fixed-wing firefighting.
Subject to CASA approval, McDermott Aviation plans to operate three Transall C-160 fixed-wing aircraft which will improve Australia’s firefighting capabilities in rugged and remote locations.
McDermott Aviation Founder and President John McDermott says the Transall C-160 is known for its high-wing configuration, long-range endurance, short take-off and landing capability and heavy-lift performance, making it well suited to operate in rugged terrain and remote locations both in Australia and overseas, where his company supports firefighting and other natural disaster responses.
“These aircraft are built for tough jobs in tough places,” said John.
“They’re part of our broader strategy to grow our fleet, scale our international footprint, and bring new technology to the frontline of firefighting both at home and overseas including Europe and North America.”
Since arriving in Australia two years ago, and whilst McDermott works through the approval process with CASA, the aircraft has been fitted with a world-first tank system that has been developed in partnership with Queensland-based Helitak Firefighting Equipment, setting a new benchmark in aerial firefighting innovation.
“This is a major step forward – not just for McDermott, but for the industry and communities globally as we continue to battle extreme weather conditions,” added John.
“We’ve worked closely with Helitak to develop a tank system that is lightweight, rugged, and high-performing and will allow these aircraft to deliver precision, power, and safety where it matters most – in the field, during fire season.
“We are undertaking the final certifications for the tank and will be seeking certification that will allow us to complete the testing of this aircraft which, once approved, will dramatically change the way we fight fires, especially in remote or rural areas that are not able to cope with other large, fixed wing aircraft.”
The Transall C-160’s design allows it to safely land on regional airstrips, whereas larger fixed-wing aircraft have to return to a suitable base to refill.
“We will carry retardant in powder form, and as long as there is a water source, we will be able to refill and be back in the air in approximately 10 minutes, making the addition of these aircraft an incredible asset to our fleet,” said John.
The Helitak FT Series tank, designed specifically for the C-160 platform, is the first fixed-wing tank of its kind in the world. It integrates seamlessly with the aircraft’s frame and provides rapid-fill, high-volume water and retardant delivery, tailored for Australian firefighting conditions.
“To design and deliver our first fixed-wing tank system for such a capable aircraft is a milestone,” said Jason Schellaars, CEO of Helitak.
“Combining proven military-grade aircraft with cutting-edge Australian design is exactly the kind of collaboration that will define the future of aerial firefighting.”
While the design capacity of the tank is 16,00 litres, the average payload will be around 14,000 and it will take three minutes to refill.
The system has been jointly developed, with John McDermott initiating the concept and Helitak’s engineering team bringing it to life.
“As soon as we receive CASA certification, these aircraft will be fully operational. Our goal is to have all three aircraft mission-ready before the 2025/26 fire season, as these powerful new assets will further strengthen our world-class aerial response capabilities”, added John.
About McDermott Aviation
McDermott Aviation, established in 1982 and headquartered on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, is Australia’s largest privately owned helicopter operator. With a fleet exceeding 50 helicopters, including the world’s largest collection of Bell 214 series aircraft, McDermott operates 15 Bell 214Bs and 14 Bell 214STs. McDermott Aviation (MCDAV) owns the Type Certificate for both the Bell 214B and 214ST series and is currently preparing to commence production of its modified Utility 214ST model.
The company specialises in aerial firefighting, heavy lifting, agricultural spraying, infrastructure support, emergency response, aerial application, tourism, and training. McDermott maintains bases across Australia and the Pacific, including in New South Wales, Western Australia, Papua New Guinea, and New Caledonia. Internationally, it has a strong operational presence in Greece and is expanding in North America through major maintenance facilities in Andalusia, Alabama, and the acquisition of Transwest Helicopters in Canada. McDermott delivers safe, reliable, and technically advanced aviation services domestically and abroad. For more information, visit www.mcdermottaviation.com.
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