Rotorcrafts produced by Russian Helicopters (part of State Corporation Rostec) are actively involved in fire-fighting operations in Spain, Portugal, and other countries within Europe. The multirole Ka-32A11BC is the only coaxial helicopter capable of reaching the scene of the blaze in record time and delivering about 5 tonnes of water to extinguish the fire.
The season of heightened fire risk in the Iberian peninsula begins each year from the middle of May and lasts through until October. Throughout this period, about 20 Ka-32A11BC helicopters are based near water bodies across the peninsula. The main fire zones are situated in Seville and Valencia in Southern Spain. During the season a single helicopter complete 300 flying hours. At times the helicopters have to complete complex operations for 14 hours a day. Depending on the distance between the fire and the body of water, the helicopter can carry out between five and 30 trips to collect water each hour.
“The unique Ka-32A11BC helicopter is operated in various regions across the world. The design solutions employed in this model make it a leader in its segment,” said deputy CEO for sales Grigory Kozlov. “Due to its manoeuvrability and compactness, it is able to carry out special operations in virtually any conditions. The Ka-32A11BC is able to put out fires in cities and remote mountain and forest areas. It received high praise from operators and is in great demand on the international market.” The fire-fighting model can be used to extinguish fires using Bambi bucket or water cannon. The Ka-32A11BC meets AP-29 requirements and in 2009 was certified by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The helicopter has been certified in Brazil, Canada, China, India, and other countries. In December 2012, it received a certificate of airworthiness in Australia.
Various models of Ka-32 helicopter are operated successfully in Russia and the CIS, as well as in Brazil, Canada, China, South Korea, Spain, and Switzerlamd.
The coaxial design and lack of tail rotor ensure the Ka-32A11BC boasts a compact design, high energy efficiency and manoeuvrability, while also being very easy to handle. The helicopter can operate for up to 32,000 hours, incurring low operating costs and is very economical. In addition, the Ka-32A11BC can be fitted with medical equipment and intensive care, meaning that resuscitation can be provided to sick and injured passengers during transportation.