The shocking video in this post features cockpit vision from RAAF transport aircraft during Operation Bushfire Assist. The smoke generated from bushfires impedes visibility when attempting to land at small airfields.
The shocking video in this post features cockpit vision from Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) transport aircraft during Operation Bushfire Assist. The smoke generated from bushfires impedes visibility when attempting to land at small airfields.
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is working with emergency services to assist with firefighting efforts in northeastern New South Wales.
The first part of the footage (0:00 – 0:19) shows a C-27J Spartan crew from No. 35 Squadron attempting to land at Mallacoota in Victoria to conduct the civilian evacuation. The aircraft was unable to land on this mission, but subsequent flights were able to evacuate civilians from Mallacoota.
The second part (0:19 – 0:31) shows the C-130J Hercules crew from No. 37 Squadron attempting to land at Merimbula in New South Wales to deliver Fire & Rescue NSW personnel. The aircraft was unable to land and diverted to Canberra with the personnel.
“They’re very challenging and dynamic conditions out there. Even though our crews are highly trained and professional, heavy smoke from bushfires means they’re not always able to complete the mission on the first try,” the RAAF claimed on Facebook.