Pilots and crew from 84 Squadron have been working hard in support of local authorities to tackle wildfires covering an extensive area in the Limassol district.
On Monday 12th August, working alongside Government, Police and National Guard helicopters as well as Forestry Commission fixed wing aircraft, 84 Squadron delivered over thirty tonnes of water during a five hour period in the Limassol District, protecting villages between Malia and Pachna.
The fires started late morning and forces tackling the blaze were continually bolstered throughout the afternoon until the help of 84 Squadron was requested at 5pm. The aircraft involved collected water from the Kouris Dam before delivering it on to the fires to stop them spreading.
Officer Commanding 84 Squadron, Squadron Leader Alan Ross, flew one of the Squadron’s Griffin helicopters while they were fighting the fires.
He Said:
“This shows the importance of the regular training we undertake, as well as the high-end skill sets needed to operate aircraft with our Cypriot partners in dangerous situations at maximum performance, focusing on the protection of lives.”
84 Squadron deployed two Griffin helicopters at the request of the Fire Services to enact the Republic of Cyprus’ Ikaros Plan. The Ikaros Plan aims to call on all available assets in the region that can assist local firefighting units against wildfires.
Rear Crewman, Sergeant Ian Bateson, who works on 84 Squadron said:
"This was a situation that we train for regularly and something that can be challenging but also very rewarding."
The wildfire was one of the largest experienced by 84 Squadron, where crews had to perform at the highest level to help bring the fire under control, protect life and maintain safe operations.
