The United Aerial Firefighters Association (UAFA) has published commentary on recent federal consolidation efforts and their operational implications for aerial firefighting.
UAFA said Executive Order 14308 has streamlined the federal organization chart and led to improved coordination between the Department of the Interior (DOI) and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS).
It pointed to joint inspections and reciprocal “single carding” as early operational changes that have reduced redundant administrative processes for pilots and operators.
The association wrote that companies have already recognized these efficiencies and that the changes are easing workload pressures tied to overlapping requirements.
UAFA wrote that longer-term contracts and updated technical specifications remain priorities for the aerial firefighting industry.
It said these changes would support greater investment and expansion of aircraft fleets and are gaining traction within the USWFS and the USFS.
The association stated that modernization of aircraft alone will not resolve systemic constraints if supporting ground infrastructure remains outdated.
It described many existing tanker bases as affected by deferred maintenance, aging systems and locations that no longer align with shifting fire threats.
UAFA called for a comprehensive audit of tanker bases to assess modernization, expansion and strategic relocation options to prevent delays shifting from aircraft availability to ground operations.
It also raised the option of partnerships or alternative ownership models for bases as the Administration seeks to reduce maintenance costs and divest certain government facilities.
The commentary linked recent high rates of “Unable to Fill (UTF)” orders to shortages of trained government personnel required to manage aircraft and bases.
UAFA said resolving this issue requires increasing the number of trained government staff dedicated to aerial firefighting management and using contracted workforces in line with the Executive Order to address hiring timelines.
It added that Congressional funding limits Chief Fennessey and that these needs should be incorporated into the forthcoming FY2028 budget request within the current two-year budget cycle.
UAFA wrote that analysis, partner engagement and forward planning are needed to position the United States to protect communities, reduce wildland fire risk and support firefighters on the ground.
