The McDonnell Douglas DC-10 looks like it’s like 50ft from the top of that ridge line.
This dude is flying it like I do in video games.
I can imagine the alarms going nuts: “TERRAIN, TERRAIN! PULL UP! PULL UP!”
Originally designed as a commercial airliner, the McDonnell Douglas DC-10 found a new purpose in its second life as an aerial firefighter. Its large size, robust structure, and impressive payload capacity make it an ideal candidate for adapting to the challenging and dynamic environment of wildfire suppression.
To transform the McDonnell Douglas DC-10 into an efficient air tanker, several modifications are undertaken. The most notable alteration involves the installation of a tank system for carrying fire retardant or water. This modification enhances the aircraft’s ability to deliver large volumes of suppressant over targeted areas.
The DC-10’s firefighting variant, commonly known as the DC-10 Air Tanker, boasts a verifiable capacity to carry up to 11,600 gallons (44,000 liters) of fire retardant. This extensive load allows for effective coverage of vast swaths of land affected by wildfires.
One of the key strengths of the DC-10 in aerial firefighting lies in its ability to execute precise and targeted drops. The aircraft is equipped with a computerized system that ensures accurate dispersal of fire retardant, optimizing its impact on the advancing flames.
