Two Cypriot firefighting aircraft departed for France at 06:30 on Monday, responding to a request submitted by Paris through the European civil protection mechanism. The aircraft are deployed to assist in tackling wildfires currently affecting the country.
The request and deployment
National Civil Protection Coordinator Chief Fire Officer Nikos Longinous told CNA that the request concerned "the two aircraft of the Republic of Cyprus," which are leased to the Republic through rescEU and are stationed in Cyprus, made available to the European mechanism when the need arises.
The two aircraft, Forest 3 and Forest 4, departed with two pilots, an observer, and a mechanic, bound for Perpignan, and are expected to arrive at around 19:00 local time.
A team of eight is also travelling to France on a private flight, expected to arrive ahead of the aircraft.
Duration and operations
The estimated duration of the Cypriot mission is approximately five days. Crews will operate in the area designated by the competent French authorities, based on operational needs.
Decision-making process
The Ministry of Interior was informed of the request. As there are currently no major active fire fronts in the Republic of Cyprus, it took the decision to dispatch assistance. The European system was subsequently notified that the two aircraft were available. The request was accepted at around 21:30 on Sunday, following which the Air Squadron was informed and proceeded with operational planning.
