Bridger Aerospace Group Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: BAER, BAERW), one of the largest aerial firefighting companies in the United States, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Positive Aviation, Inc. (PA), a Blagnac, France-based engineering firm, to develop and deploy the innovative FF72 amphibious water-scooping firefighting aircraft. The partnership, formalized today through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), designates Bridger as the exclusive North American launch customer for the FF72, a cutting-edge, efficient aircraft derived from the ATR 72-600.
The partnership was unveiled at the Aerial Fire Fighting Series: Europe Conference and Exhibition (AFFE25) in Bordeaux, France, with an agreement still subject to negotiation of a definitive collaboration contract. The announcement comes at a time when the demand for effective and scalable wildfire-fighting solutions is at an all-time high, and Bridger’s fleet expansion is expected to play a crucial role in meeting that demand.
Under the terms of the MOU, Bridger will assume a pivotal role in North America, handling the FF72 aircraft’s sales, marketing, in-service support, modifications, certification, and crew training. Furthermore, Bridger will have the option to purchase ten FF72 aircraft initially, with the potential for an additional ten units, contingent upon mutually agreed terms. The first deliveries of the FF72 to Bridger are expected by 2029, aligning with the 2029 fire year.
The FF72 aircraft is poised to complement Bridger’s current fleet, which includes the well-regarded CL-415 EAF Super Scoopers. With the integration of the FF72, Bridger will enhance its ability to respond to wildfires with advanced, cost-effective firefighting resources, solidifying its leadership position in the aerial firefighting space. The addition of the FF72 represents a leap forward in both technology and capability, as it combines state-of-the-art engineering with the reliability of the ATR 72 platform.
A Vision for Wildfire Management
As the frequency and intensity of wildfires increase globally, Bridger’s strategic move to expand its fleet signals its commitment to staying ahead of the curve. “With the increasing global demand for year-round aerial firefighting resources and the current shortage of available assets, the FF72 will be a valuable addition to our Scooper fleet,” said Sam Davis, CEO of Bridger Aerospace. “By combining advanced airframe enhancements with the aircraft’s proven technologies and reliability, Positive Aviation has developed an outstanding product.”
The FF72’s capabilities will allow Bridger to deliver more efficient, scalable firefighting solutions, a necessity as wildfires are increasingly recognized as a year-round challenge. With Bridger’s extensive experience and proven expertise in aerial firefighting, the FF72 will help meet the urgent need for more effective and reliable aircraft in the fight against wildfires.
Global Growth and Innovation
This partnership between Bridger Aerospace and Positive Aviation is not only a win for the U.S. but has broader implications for wildfire management worldwide. Laurent Schmitt, Chairman and Founder of Positive Aviation, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “We are proud to partner with Bridger and are excited to develop this aircraft to meet the growing demand for cost-effective wildfire fighting solutions both in the U.S. and globally.”
The agreement marks an important milestone for Bridger as it continues to innovate and expand its capabilities. By strengthening its aerial firefighting fleet with the FF72, Bridger reinforces its position as a trusted partner for governments and agencies fighting the devastation of wildfires.
By: DNU staff