Embraer C-390 Completes Flight Tests for Firefighting Missions

The C-390’s firefighting system is capable of deploying up to 3,000 gallons of water, both with and without fire retardant. [Courtesy: Embraer]

Airplane manufacturer Embraer has completed flight tests on its C-390 Millennium military turbofan aircraft aimed at adding firefighting capabilities. With its Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS II), the OEM said the mid-size utility aircraft would now be able to perform firefighting missions.

The tests—a joint effort between the Brazilian Air Force and the Brazilian Military Certification Authority (IFI)—utilized the MAFFS II system’s ability to deploy approximately 3,000 gallons of water, with or without fire retardant, Embraer said. Additionally, with fly-by-wire flight control systems by BAE Systems, Embraer said this will give pilots the maneuverability they need at low speeds.

According to Embraer, operators who opt for this capability can have it installed readily on the airplane's cargo compartment using only its trailer. It's designed to interface with the aircraft's Cargo Handling System (CHS). To complete the test, Embraer said several in-flight water drops were executed and proved the MAFFS II's ability to integrate seamlessly into the aircraft.

The company said the flight test was an important milestone in gaining certification for firefighting capabilities. After certification, other operators can add this firefighting capability to their orders.

The test was conducted at Embraer's facilities in São Paulo, Brazil, and follows Embraer's other announcement that it was also testing the KC-390 Millennium, the air-to-air refueling configuration variant of the C-390. Embraer has launched these new multi-missional military transport aircraft that offer "unrivaled mobility and cargo capacity" through rapid re-configuration and other capabilities.

READ MORE: Embraer Makes Successful Aerial Refueling with KC-390 Millennium

After years of development, Embraer began producing the C-390 in 2014, marketing it as an alternative to Lockheed Martin's iconic C-130 Hercules. The Brazilian Air Force received the first C-390 in September 2019, which is part of their order of 22, and Portugal and Hungary are also expecting a handful of deliveries in 2023 and 2024, respectively.

BAE Systems Brazil C-390 Cargo Embraer firefighting KC-390 Military

Michael WildesAuthor

Michael Wildes holds a master’s degree in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, and a bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Science, both from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Previously, he worked at the university’s flight department as a Flight Check Airman, Assistant Training Manager, and Quality Assurance Mentor. He holds MEI, CFI & CFII ratings. Follow Michael on Twitter @Captainwildes.