The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection could soon equip aircraft with single-pilot or optionally piloted capabilities. [Courtesy: Skyryse]
Key Takeaways:
California's Cal Fire is partnering with Skyryse to integrate its SkyOS flight operating system into its aerial firefighting fleet to combat increasingly larger wildfires and address pilot shortages.
SkyOS is a universal fly-by-wire system that replaces traditional mechanical controls with simplified digital ones, designed to enhance safety, improve efficiency, and enable optionally piloted operations.
The system aims to reduce pilot workload, allow first responders to focus on the mission, and significantly lower accident rates by automating complex maneuvers like takeoffs, landings, and emergency autorotations.
In January, California faced devastating wildfires that burned over 57,000 acres, destroyed more than 16,000 structures, and killed at least 30 people. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) operates the world’s largest civil aerial firefighting fleet.
In recent years, though, increasingly larger blazes have stretched the program thin.
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Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
