Columbia Helicopters renews Turkey firefighting contract for fifth consecutive season

Echoing this sentiment, CMC's President and CEO Cem Çolak commented, "We are pleased to continue our partnership with Columbia Helicopters. After four years of successful firefighting operations, their 234 Multi-Mission Chinook helicopters have become a key asset in our support to the Turkish General Directorate of Forestry."

In recent years, Turkey has experienced an increase in wildfire activity. The country's General Directorate of Forestry has reported a rise in annual wildfire incidents from approximately 2,950 in 2020 to an estimated 3,800 in 2024.

Scott Rumsby, crew chief for Aircraft 37 and Turkey operations lead, remarked, "Our team has witnessed firsthand the growing scale and intensity of these fires. The 2024 season was especially challenging, with record-breaking temperatures driving conditions that required rapid and sustained response. We are proud to work alongside Turkish crews once again to help contain and suppress these destructive fires."

The fire season in Turkey typically spans from May through October, with peak activity usually occurring in July and August.