The tender for leasing firefighting helicopters was cancelled due to technical criteria not being met, leaving Cyprus vulnerable to wildfires. Despite current aerial firefighting resources, plans for new leases and purchases are in place to enhance firefighting capabilities and protect natural habitats and communities from fire hazards.
Why was the tender for firefighting helicopters cancelled?
The tender for leasing two firefighting helicopters was cancelled due to all participating companies failing to meet the vital technical criteria for performance and safety. This has occurred at a critical time as wildfire risks increase and the need for effective aerial support grows.
Unmet Technical Criteria Leads to Cancellation
In a recent development, the process for acquiring firefighting support has hit a snag. Authorities had to scrap the leasing tender for two firefighting helicopters due to a lack of qualified bids. According to reports from within the Department of Forests, the technical criteria, which are crucial for the performance and safety of such operations, were not met by any of the participating companies. This stumbling block occurs at a time when wildfire risks are on the rise, with temperatures climbing and fire incidents becoming increasingly frequent.
A fresh start is on the horizon, though. Sources indicate that a new tender, with the same goal of leasing two helicopters, is slated for release soon. The aim is to ensure that the necessary aerial support is available to combat the blazes that endanger both natural habitats and human settlements during the fire season.
Current Aerial Firefighting Resources
While the tender is in limbo, the island’s firefighting arsenal is not entirely grounded. Currently available are two helicopters from Jordan, one from the police force, two from the National Guard, and two from the British bases. This ensemble of seven helicopters represents the best-case scenario for responding to fires at present. In terms of aerial firefighting, however, the Department of Forests operates with just one airplane at its disposal.
Meanwhile, there’s anticipation for the reinforcement of this fleet. Four leased firefighting airplanes from Spain are expected to return and join the fight against wildfires within the month. This temporary arrangement is a stop-gap measure until more permanent solutions, such as the anticipated leases and purchases, can be put in place.
Shift in Contract Management and Future Plans
Looking at the recent history of firefighting equipment procurement, there’s been a shift in responsibility. Since 2019, the Department of Forests has been overseeing contracts for leasing firefighting helicopters, a task that was previously managed by the interior ministry. This change reflects the importance of aligning equipment management with expertise in forest fire prevention and response.
The long-term strategy includes significant investments in aerial firefighting capabilities. Plans are in motion for the government to acquire up to ten firefighting aircraft over the next five years. This ambitious initiative aims to enhance the ability to handle multiple fires simultaneously and improve response times, ultimately protecting the island’s valuable natural resources and communities.
Immediate Concerns and Repair Delays
In the midst of preparing for the future, there are pressing challenges to address. A shocking revelation came to light earlier this year when officials disclosed to parliament that not a single firefighting aircraft was operational; all eight under the Department of Forests’ care were undergoing repairs. The timing of this disclosure, ahead of the fire-prone summer months, raised concerns about the preparedness for the upcoming wildfire season.
The urgency of these repairs is underscored by the continuous threat of wildfires, which have historically posed significant risks to the region. The government and relevant departments are now tasked with not only expediting the repair process but also ensuring the swift and rigorous selection of suitable helicopters through the reissued tender. Thus, ensuring the safety of Cyprus’ landscapes and its inhabitants remains a top priority.
Why was the tender for firefighting helicopters cancelled?
The tender for leasing two firefighting helicopters was cancelled due to all participating companies failing to meet the vital technical criteria for performance and safety. This has occurred at a critical time as wildfire risks increase and the need for effective aerial support grows.
What is the current status of aerial firefighting resources in Cyprus?
Currently, Cyprus has access to two helicopters from Jordan, one from the police force, two from the National Guard, and two from the British bases for firefighting operations. Additionally, the Department of Forests operates with one airplane. Four leased firefighting airplanes from Spain are expected to return soon to bolster the fleet temporarily.
What are the future plans for enhancing firefighting capabilities in Cyprus?
The government plans to acquire up to ten firefighting aircraft over the next five years to improve aerial firefighting capabilities. This initiative aims to handle multiple fires simultaneously, reduce response times, and protect the island’s natural resources and communities.
What immediate concerns are being addressed regarding firefighting aircraft in Cyprus?
Earlier this year, it was revealed that none of the eight firefighting aircraft under the Department of Forests’ care were operational, as they were undergoing repairs. The repair process needs to be expedited to ensure readiness for the upcoming wildfire season. The reissued tender for leasing firefighting helicopters is crucial to selecting suitable aircraft promptly and ensuring the safety of Cyprus’ landscapes and inhabitants.
