"Firebombing is tough enough" - Itinerant Aircraft

Firebombing is already a demanding task for pilots when you consider the conditions they are required to operate (i.e. low-level flying in reduced visibility and proximity to other firefighting aircraft), without the additional dangers associated with itinerant or non-firefighting aircraft entering a bushfire area.

For this reason, a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) is issued on an annual basis by Air Services Australia (ASA) to alert pilots of the safety issues associated with bushfires and the presence of aerial firefighting aircraft.

The NOTAM requires all aircraft not coordinated through the relevant state fire authority to remain clear for a distance of 5 nautical miles and altitude of 3000ft above ground level of observed fires.

The responsibility for obtaining NOTAM information remains the responsibility of pilots, and may be obtained via the Air Services Australia website www.airservicesaustralia.com.