Bridger Aerospace’s “super scooper” firefighting planes are back in Oklahoma this week, setting up near western airfields as state officials brace for an early and potentially busy wildfire season. The move puts water-dropping aircraft and a sensor-equipped surveillance plane on standby to back up local crews across the state. Bridger has positioned its CL-415EAF Super Scooper water-bombers alongside a Pilatus PC-12 multi-mission aircraft to give firefighters an aerial assist. The company used the same mix of aircraft in Oklahoma in 2025 and says the planes provide both direct water drops and real-time imagery to guide ground operations, as outlined by Bridger Aerospace.
How the planes help on the frontline
The scooper aircraft refill from nearby lakes and fly continuous scoop-and-drop cycles aimed at cooling fire fronts and protecting structures in their path. Each scooper can haul more than 1,000 gallons per load, roughly 1,412 gallons on the models deployed, and crews say those frequent drops buy time for firefighters on the ground, according to KJRH.
Why Oklahoma asked for reinforcements
Statewide fire activity spiked in January. KFOR reported that at least 126 fires burned more than 13,000 acres during the first month of the year. Land managers and researchers say heavier dormant fuels and this season’s outlook are elevating the risk of fast, destructive runs, per reporting by KOSU.
Officials on the ground
Mel Holtz, Bridger’s director of business development, told KFOR, “The PC-12’s sensors can spot flames up to 25 miles away,” and added that the scooper fleet “can move quickly throughout the state” to respond where needed. Holtz said the team was scheduled to begin staging Feb. 1 to be ready for spring conditions.
Oklahoma Forestry Services and local officials are still preaching caution: obey local burn bans, follow guidance on prescribed burns, and report active fires immediately. For resources and reporting contacts, visit the information page from Oklahoma Forestry Services.
