The 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing of the Philippine Air Force conducted its first-ever Helibucket Operations training utilizing Blackhawk helicopters on May 6, 2024 at Col Ernesto Ravina Air Base, Capas, Tarlac.
The heli bucket, a versatile firefighting tool, hangs beneath helicopters, enabling rapid water drops taken from natural water sources to extinguish flames according to Col Ma Consuelo N Castillo Chief, Air Force Public Affairs Office
Personnel of the 205th THW were trained under the guidance of Instructor Pilots from the 210th Tactical Training Squadron, with additional support from heli bucket pilots and crew from 505th Search and Rescue Group.
The helibucket used for the Blackhawk has a capacity of 660 US Gallons or 2500 liters of water. With this larger capacity to hold water, it will enable a PAF aircraft to deliver more water in each sortie when combating fire on the ground.
This training initiative represents the PAF’s continuous efforts to enhance aerial capabilities to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies, Col Castillo said
