The Erickson Air Tanker is one of the most recognized air tanker fleets in the United States. Founded in 1971 by Jack Erickson, the company has a long and storied history of aviation excellence. The company has been providing a vital service to the firefighting industry since its inception, and continues to be a leader in the industry today.

The fleet of Erickson Air Tanker is comprised of a variety of aircraft, but the most recognizable is the DC-7. This aircraft was the backbone of the company’s fleet for many years, and helped to establish the company’s reputation for reliability and quality. The DC-7 was one of the first aircraft to be used for air tankers, and it has since been replaced with newer aircraft such as the Lockheed Martin A-4 Skyhawk and the Lockheed P-3 Orion.

Throughout its history, Erickson Air Tanker has faced its fair share of adversity. In 1992, the company was involved in a fatal crash in Montana, in which all three crew members perished. This tragedy put a dark cloud over the company, and it took several years for the company to recover.

In 1998, the company was the subject of a federal investigation into its safety record. The investigation revealed a pattern of poor maintenance and inadequate training, and resulted in the company being fined and forced to make significant changes to its operations.

Despite the setbacks, Erickson Air Tanker has continued to grow and expand. In 2002, the company acquired its first AT-802A aircraft, which was a key addition to the fleet. In 2008, the company acquired a fleet of Sikorsky S-76 helicopters, which enabled it to expand its operations even further.

These days, Erickson Air Tanker is one of the most well-respected air tanker fleets in the country. The company has an impressive fleet of aircraft and an excellent safety record, and it has become a major player in the firefighting industry. The company has also been involved in numerous humanitarian efforts, providing assistance in areas affected by natural disasters and other emergencies.

Throughout its history, Erickson Air Tanker has demonstrated its commitment to providing the highest quality of service to its customers. The company’s commitment to safety and excellence is unmatched, and it continues to be a leader in the industry.