An Air Crane farewell

The Air Cranes (modified Sikorsky S-64 helicopters) owned by Erickson of Portland (OR), USA operate as flying firefighters across the globe. When and where they are deployed varies depending on the environmental circumstances and the period of the local fire season. It is therefore unlikely to see more than a small number of Air Cranes at the same time.

However, this week ten(!) Air Cranes gathered at the end of the Greek fire season. Thanks to the excellent photos by Dimitris Klagos, we can show you nine of these in one shot. In recent months the Erickson crews have been operating in close cooperation with the Greek ΠΟΛΙΤΙΚΗ ΠΡΟΣΤΑΣΙΑ (Civil Protection Services).

And so (from right to left), Olga, Mariah, Elsie, Incredible Hulk, Delilah, Jerry, Georgia Peach, Gypsy Lady, and Marty lined up for their imminent farewell. The tenth S-64, Christine, was still in the air when the pictures were taken.

Unlike in recent years, when up to six S-64s passed on to Australia after their job in Europe had been finished, there is this time only one helicopter going there.

Photos: Dimitris Klagos