During the sector safety risk profile (SSRP) workshop in June 2023, operators participating discussed complexities and risks around using communication equipment during a fire emergency.
What can aerial firefighting operators do
Operators mentioned the complexity of balancing different communication devices fitted to aircraft and ground infrastructure to enable communication with relevant state regional fire services. This included devices for:
- radio communications air-ground
- ATC
- air-air.
Operators also identified radio congestion as another risk. Operators reported that during an event there can be as many as 5 frequencies monitored at one time. This can affect situational awareness as a result.
Organisations should also consider what other methods are available to complement voice communications and support flight crew in maintaining situational awareness. Electronic conspicuity systems (for example ADS-B) while not a regulatory requirement can be useful to complement verbal communication.
What we are doing and already delivered
We will consider exemption requests to allow appropriately qualified firefighting personnel to communicate with aerial firefighting aircraft through the aviation bandwidth VHF AM frequencies. This exemption means they won’t need an aeronautical radio operator certificate.
We have worked with other state safety programme agencies to support the Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Rebate Program – Round 2 | business.gov.au. The program incentivises voluntary uptake of ADS-B equipment in Australian–registered aircraft operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). This will improve safety and efficiency for Australian airspace users. The program runs through until mid-2027.