The Impact of Changing Oversight in Wildfire Aviation

U.S. Sen. Tim Sheehy, a Montana Republican, previously managed an aerial firefighting company known as Bridger Aerospace. After joining Congress, Sheehy proposed eliminating the U.S. Forest Service’s inspection of aircraft used for firefighting—an idea that reflected Sheehy’s personal interests, given his ownership stake in Bridger Aerospace. This plan emerged as Sheehy worked to expand private aerial forces in combating wildfires.

Bridger Aerospace has been contracted by the Forest Service since 2021, with payouts exceeding $235 million for the use of their aircraft, known for retrieving water and extinguishing fires. However, the relationship between Bridger and the Forest Service has faced scrutiny due to inspection failures within Bridger’s fleet.

In April, a Forest Service inspection uncovered a significant crack in the wing of a Bridger-owned aircraft, causing the aircraft to fail inspection. Despite this issue, Bridger emphasized its dedication to safety and extensive maintenance investments. Furthermore, Bridger’s aircraft have not been involved in any crashes per the National Transportation Safety Board records.

Sen. Sheehy’s proposal to eliminate Forest Service inspections has stirred controversy. Many fire officials believe removing oversight would increase spending on aerial firefighting while benefiting companies like Bridger Aerospace. Sheehy asserts that his scoopers need less stringent inspections due to their specialized design for firefighting. He further claims no conflict of interest exists because his stock has been placed in blind trusts.

Veteran fire official Doug Crandall highlights potential detrimental effects on safety with reduced inspections, referencing historic accidents caused by undetected issues.

Despite challenges, Bridger Aerospace continues expanding, buoyed by favorable legislative conditions. The company, amid financial hurdles, secured profitability in 2024 and has been angling for further opportunities amid unification talks within federal fire agencies.

As conversations about a national fire service progress, inspections from different agencies appear redundant, although safety concerns necessitate careful considerations. Currently, the Forest Service holds significant responsibility for inspection and firefighting operations.

With increasing pressure and staffing issues, questions about the future of Forest Service inspections linger. Still, the Department of Agriculture and Forest Service emphasize maintaining thorough safety standards. This assurance comes as wildfires begin across the Midwest, prompting inspections procedures to ensure readiness.