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Volo helps train Cyprus police unit for aerial firefighting
January 10, 2024 By Helicopters Staff
The CPAU Command, along with their instructors, pilots, crewmembers, and engineering staff demonstrated exceptional organizational skills, efficiency, professionalism, and a strong commitment to safety throughout the training. (Photo: Volo Mission) Volo Mission, which specializes in long-line training, recently collaborated with the Cyprus Police Air Unit to provide re-current and initial aerial firefighting training for its pilots and aircrews.
Based at Larnaca International Airport in Cyprus, the Cyprus Police Air Unit (CPAU) operates a fleet of Bell 412s and Leonardo AW139s, engaging in a range of missions such as aerial firefighting and search and rescue in addition to more traditional police operations.
For firefighting, the CPAU AW139s utilize 100-0foot long lines with Bambi Buckets, while the Bell 412s employ belly hooking with the Water Hog bucket system.
Volo Mission explains a total of eight pilots and nine crew members participated in extensive ground classes, field briefings and flight training. The training covered various aspects of aerial firefighting, encompassing safety practices and emergency procedures through to dip-site recognition, drop techniques, decision making and focus, to name a few of the topics covered.
Additionally, two senior instructors underwent a train-the-trainer course and will continue to work with the team to sustain and elevate the CPAU’s skill level, preparing for any potential fire missions.
