Passengers
hope never to see an airport firefighting vehicle needed, but
nothing says "safety and security" like a large Aircraft
Rescue and Fire Fighting truck coming to the rescue should that
need arise.
Today, the newest tool for the safe care of all who use the
Boise Airport was commissioned. After an introduction by
Airport Director Rebecca Hupp, Council President Maryann Jordan and
Fire Chief Dennis Doan commemorated the inauguration of the
new fire truck with a ceremonial spraying (washing) of the unit
followed by fire fighters pushing the truck back into its bay at
Boise Airport Fire Station #19. The tradition is reminiscent of the
time when horses were used to pull water carriages to fight
fires.
These specialized vehicles have a normal service life of
approximately 18 years. The original S-9 ARFF truck has
close to 19 years of service and is experiencing high maintenance
costs to keep it in service. The vehicle's dedicated use is to keep
the flying public and BOI employees safe by mitigating Aircraft
emergencies and fires. It, along with its crew, is the first
responder vehicle capable of reaching an aircraft within 3 minutes
of any incident.
This equipment adds updated controls for remote operation of the
nozzle. The new truck has a fully electronic cab
compared to mechanical controls of the prior vehicle, with drivers
using joystick controls for quick and precise response.
The vehicle cost $631,319, of which 95% was paid with a grant
from the Federal Aviation Administration and the remaining 5% paid
using airport cash reserves. FAA regulations require the Airport to
provide aircraft rescue and fire fighting capability and the
addition of this equipment enables the Airport to ensure a high
level of readiness.
-BOI-
BOISE AIRPORT (BOI) is a municipally owned entity operating as a
self-supporting enterprise. No City of Boise
general funds are used to operate the Airport. BOI is served by 5
airlines which offer daily service to 16 non-stop cities. In 2011,
more than 2.8 million passengers traveled through Boise
Airport.