Blackhawk Deployed

THE first blackhawk helicopter in commercial operation in Australia has flown out to Ballarat this morning, where authorities are preparing for extreme fire conditions.

The helicopter is part of Pay’s Air Service fire fighting capability this year because it can carry more water and reach fires quicker than other helicopters currently used in Australia.

Matt Baker, chief pilot at Pay’s was there with families of the crew to watch them take off.

“They are going to Ballarat and will be on standby where they are expecting hot weather tomorrow,” said Mr Baker.

“The flight time is over three hours and they will cruise at about 140 knots or 270km an hour with a stop at Wagga to refuel,” he said.

“We are looking forward to seeing the machine in action,” Matt Baker said.

Related story: Blackhawk Helicopter Lands in Scone.

The flyby over the airstrip to say goodbye to family and friends.