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Simultaneous Loading and Fueling (SL+F) Airtankers

 

SL+F is a relatively new process for airtankers, having been approved in 2014. When done correctly, it is very safe and reduces time spent on the ground, which makes delivery of fire retardant to the incident more expeditious. Only airtankers with nationally-approved risk assessments and procedures specific to SL+F will be allowed to take part in the procedure.

Each base that plans to take part in SL+F of airtankers must have a written plan approved by their regional/state Aviation Officer/Manager or equivalent.

Discuss process, procedures, and personnel needed to execute a SL+F.

  • Have all current ramp personnel reviewed the plan and had training specific to SL+F?
  • Only the Airtanker Base Manager (ATBM), in agreement with the pilot, can request to SL+F. Discuss the regularity at which this operation takes place.
    • What are the trigger points and how is the decision communicated to the Ramp Manager (RAMP)?
  • At your base, will the Fixed Wing Parking Tender (FWPT) have full view of both the retardant loading and fueling operation in all parking configurations? Discuss where the FWPT must stand in order to observe the entire operation.
    • What are the possible hazards of the operation?
    • What does the FWPT need to stop the operation if there is a hazard present?
  • How will personnel operating a SL+F on the ramp effectively communicate an issue that could compromise safety?
    • Who is responsible for identifying safety issues on the ramp and how do they communicate these issues?
  • When both loading and fueling operations are taking place on the same side of an airtanker all participants must ensure these functions stay apart from each other.
    • Discuss whether base allows SL+F and when it can be authorized to be on the same side versus opposite sides of the fuselage.
    • What are the procedures for maintaining separation during same-side operations at your base?
Category
Airtankers
References
NWCG Standards for Airtanker Base Operations, PMS 508

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NWCG Latest Announcements

National Wildland Firefighter Day

Date: July 2, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
National Interagency Fire Center

The National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) recognizes July 2, 2025, as National Wildland Firefighter Day (NWFFD). Established in 2022, NWFFD honors the dedication of wildland firefighters and support personnel. This day falls within the 2025 Week of Remembrance (June 30 - July 6), providing an opportunity to renew our commitment to wildland firefighter safety while remembering those who have fallen in the line of duty.

NWCG provides leadership to enable interoperable wildland fire operations among federal, state, local, Tribal, and territorial partners. NWCG standards and training establish common practices to contribute to safe, effective, and coordinated interagency wildland fire operations nationwide.

References:

Week of Remembrance

National Wildland Firefighter Day

2025 Week of Remembrance

Date: June 27, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
6 Minutes for Safety Subcommittee

As we approach the 2025 Week of Remembrance (WOR), June 30–July 6, we dedicate this time to reflect on the past incidents from 2015 and honor the fallen through learning. Since its inception in 2014, WOR has honored wildland firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while encouraging critical discussions that reinforce lessons learned.

Throughout the week, we encourage thoughtful and generative conversations—whether in briefing rooms or at tailgates—that promote a culture of continuous learning and safety.

References:

2025 Week of Remembrance: Letter to Leadership

Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center

ETC Equipment Bulletin: 25-003 Flame-Resistant Shirt Survey

Date: June 12, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Equipment Technology Committee

The U.S. Forest Service National Technology and Development Program (NTDP) is seeking input on the Forest Service-designed flame-resistant (FR) shirt, currently available through the National Interagency Support Cache system and FedMall.

NTDP is conducting a product review to improve future FR shirt designs. As part of this effort, a short survey is now open for federal employees who have worn any of three recent FR shirt models. Feedback will guide design improvements to better meet the needs of wildland firefighters.

To comply with the Paperwork Reduction Act, responses are limited to federal employees. The survey is open through September 12, 2025. 

References:

NWCG Alerts

ETC Equipment Bulletin: 25-003

NEW! S-130, Firefighter Training (Blended) Now Available

Date: June 10, 2025
If you have questions, please visit our FAQ page. 
If your question is not answered there, you can 
submit your question using our Contact Us form. 
 

The S-130, Firefighter Training (Blended), equips new wildland firefighters with essential skills through a mix of online learning and hands-on training. The course features a required online component and an instructor-led exercise, reinforcing online concepts with practical performance-based training.

The course builds competencies in wildland fire operations, safety, and equipment use, applicable across various operational environments. Both the online component and instructor-led field exercise must be completed to receive a certificate of completion. Students are required to finish the prerequisite S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior, before enrolling in S-130, Firefighter Training (Blended).

References:

S-130, Firefighter Training (Blended)

S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior

Wildland Fire Learning Portal