International Day of Forests: The fight from the skies
- Udelí Morales Romero
- Mar 21
- 3 min read
Every March 21, the International Day of Forests reminds us of the vital role these ecosystems play in climate regulation, biodiversity conservation, and providing essential resources. However, every year, thousands of hectares of forests and jungles in Mexico are consumed by wildfires, threatening not only flora and fauna but also the communities that depend on these ecosystems.
Rising temperatures and prolonged drought conditions have intensified the frequency and magnitude of these fires, making them one of the country’s biggest environmental threats. In this context, aerial firefighting has become a key tool in mitigating the damage, allowing for a fast and effective response in emergency situations.
Aviation and Firefighting: The Aerial Response to the Forest Crisis
Fires can spread at alarming speeds, making rapid response crucial to preventing the loss of vast forested areas. Specialized aircraft play a strategic role in wildfire suppression by allowing precise water and fire retardant drops over affected areas.
Through the Aerial Support Service for Federal Wildfire Suppression, Mexico has a fleet of aircraft equipped to intervene in active fires and minimize environmental impact.
Intervention in hard-to-reach areas: Many fires occur in mountainous or remote regions where ground crews take hours to arrive. Aviation allows for immediate deployment.
Coordination with government agencies: This service works in collaboration with the National Forestry Commission (CONAFOR), Civil Protection, and the Federal Government, ensuring an efficient and strategic response.
Nationwide coverage: With bases in Cancun and Toluca, the service has the capability to operate in any state, depending on the emergency’s needs.
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International Day of Forests: Aerial Protection for the Environment
The International Day of Forests is not just a day of commemoration but also an opportunity to highlight the importance of investing in effective conservation technologies and strategies. Specialized aerial firefighting not only helps contain fires but also reduces risks for firefighters and affected communities.
Operational flexibility: The service is contracted for specific periods, adapting to each mission’s needs without fixed schedules, as availability depends on the urgency and duration of the fire.
Efficient firefighting strategies: Using aircraft equipped with water and retardant dispersal systems, fires can be controlled before spreading to higher-risk areas.
Availability for private sector use: Although primarily intended for government agencies, in some cases, private companies or individuals can contract the service to protect their land or nature reserves.
The Aerial Fight Against Wildfires: A Commitment to Sustainability
Aerial firefighting has become an essential solution for forest conservation in Mexico. On this International Day of Forests, it is crucial to recognize the value of aviation as a protective environmental tool that not only combats fire but also safeguards the country’s ecological balance.
Investing in aerial technology, strengthening inter-agency coordination, and promoting a culture of prevention are essential steps to ensure the survival of our forests and the biodiversity they support. Every effort counts in the fight for a greener, more resilient future.
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