According to Pierce Manufacturing, the New Orleans Fire Department (NOFD) has received four Ascendant 107’ heavy-duty aerial ladders on Enforcer chassis.
These vehicles are designed to navigate the narrow streets of the city and enhance emergency response capabilities.
The NOFD, which serves the city’s 391,000 residents across 199,000 square miles, operates 31 fire stations and responds to approximately 65,000 calls annually.
This delivery builds on a longstanding relationship between NOFD and Pierce, which includes prior purchases such as 21 pumpers in 2018 and three aerial trucks, creating a fully Pierce-equipped frontline fleet.
Charlie Howley, NOFD’s fleet manager, commented on the decision: “These trucks are perfect for maneuvering around curbs and navigating the tight, brick streets of New Orleans.
“With Pierce’s TAK-4 Independent Suspension, they handle the rough conditions in our older city very well.”
The Ascendant aerial ladders include features aimed at improving both functionality and safety.
Each truck is equipped with a 107’ steel ladder offering a 100’ horizontal reach, a 500-gallon water tank, and a Waterous 1500 GPM pump.
Additional components include:
Kirk Givler, vice president of sales for Siddons-Martin Emergency Group, highlighted the customization involved in these vehicles: “The design reflects our commitment to delivering the best possible equipment for the department’s needs.”
The new vehicles were chosen based on their maneuverability and the reliability of Pierce equipment.
Howley added: “Our aging fleet needed an update, and the new apparatus have exceeded our expectations.
They’ve held up well in the humid climate and handle the city’s unique challenges with ease.”
The NOFD’s fleet supports operations in a city known for its historical architecture, cultural events such as Mardi Gras, and large-scale gatherings like the Louisiana Jazz & Heritage Festival.
In addition to the aerial ladders, the NOFD has placed an order for a Pierce Snozzle and a rescue truck.
These acquisitions aim to bolster the department’s ability to address a wide range of emergencies across its six fire districts.
NOFD maintains a “Class 1” rating, a reflection of its preparedness and effectiveness in serving the diverse needs of the New Orleans community.
The New Orleans Fire Department has received four new Ascendant 107’ aerial ladders from Pierce Manufacturing.
These vehicles, featuring advanced suspension and operational capabilities, are tailored to address the city’s narrow streets and challenging urban environment.
With this addition, the NOFD continues its longstanding collaboration with Pierce, which includes prior investments in pumpers and aerial trucks.
The department, operating 31 stations across six districts, serves 391,000 residents and responds to 65,000 calls annually.
Alongside these new vehicles, the NOFD has ordered additional specialized equipment to further enhance emergency response capabilities.
