Boeing 767 set for new role as aerial firefighter

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Boeing 767 set for new role as aerial firefighter

Policy

Yaacov Berkovitz, Executive VP and General Manager of IAI’s Aviation | IAI’s Aviation

By Sky Industry News

Jul 15, 2025

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Fire Free Forests (3F) are set to collaborate on a new firefighting platform based on the Boeing 767 converted freighter. This initiative aims to tackle the increasing threat of wildfires globally. The aircraft, named the 767FF Fire-Fighter, will be specially adapted for aerial firefighting.

IAI, known for its expertise in aircraft conversions, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Fire Free Forests on July 7 to co-develop this new firefighting aircraft. The platform will be based on IAI's BEDEK Special Freighter version of the 767BDSF. It will include structural and avionics upgrades such as ADS-B and SATCOM.

The companies aim to address large-scale wildfires that pose environmental and economic risks due to climate change. The 767FF is designed to carry around 40 tons of fire-retardant material for effective fire suppression.

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Yaacov Berkovitz, Executive VP and General Manager of IAI’s Aviation, stated: "IAI continues to demonstrate its ability to develop cutting-edge solutions that address emerging global challenges and its unique capability to adapt airborne platforms into competent, mission-tailored solutions."

The collaboration includes developing advanced sensor systems for real-time detection of fire origins and conditions. A centralized command system will coordinate both aerial and ground operations. Fire Free Forests will manage the commercial strategy, including a subscription-based service model for governmental agencies.

The rollout of the 767FF will occur in phases with deployment in regions prone to fires like the US, Canada, Australia, and Southern Europe. IAI has extensive experience converting Boeing 767 passenger aircraft into freighters, which provides economic advantages due to reduced fuel burn and maintenance costs.

The Boeing 767FF joins other jet aircraft used in aerial firefighting efforts worldwide. Larger aircraft offer significant capacity but face challenges with landing and takeoff due to their size.