On May 29, five Dromader firefighting aircraft from across Poland converged on the Międzyleś forest fire, utilizing the Warsaw-Babice airport for intensive logistical support and refueling operations.
Logistical Coordination at Babice Airport
Five Dromader aircraft utilized by the State Forests arrived from Radom, Kielce, and Białystok to combat a fire that began on May 28. Around 2:00 PM on May 29, all five planes landed simultaneously at the Warsaw-Babice airport to refuel and replenish oil and water supplies.
The airport, also known as Bemowo, served as a crucial logistics hub. Following the 1:30 PM service break, the aircraft resumed operations toward the forest fire in the Wołomin district.
Operational Tactics and Water Replenishment
Each Dromader carried approximately 2,400 liters of water per sortie, providing roughly three hours of operational capacity. To maximize efficiency, the crews refilled water at a military airfield in Mińsk Mazowiecki while returning to Babice specifically for fuel and oil.
This dual-base strategy significantly reduced the turnaround time between water drops. Efficient cycling between the fire front and replenishment points is vital for containment, especially when ground access is difficult.
The Dromader’s Role in Forest Firefighting
The PZL18M Dromader, manufactured by the State Aviation Works in Mielec, was originally designed for agricultural use. Its ability to maneuver at low altitudes and execute rapid, precise water drops makes it an effective tool for suppressing forest fires.
The deployment of five such units highlights the scale of the Międzyleś incident. Air support is critical in these scenarios to stop the fire’s spread and combat shifts in direction caused by wind conditions.
