Oxford Airport receives UK's most advanced fire tender
28.08.11
Oxford Airport has received a pioneering new state-of-the-art fire tender, representing an investment of over £500,000. The tender has been purchased from Spanish company ITURRI Group of Seville and was seen for the first time by the general public at the Oxford 'Fly-to-the-Past' Air Show last weekend, which attracted a 10,000-strong crowd.
The addition of the new fire tender is part of Oxford Airport’s commitment to upgrade all areas of its operations with the latest generation systems and equipment. Mike Sparrow, Airport Manager, said: ‘Our goal is to introduce three new engines to our fleet in the next five years as part of our ongoing priority to improve Oxford Airport’s safety services. We are very proud to be the first airport in the UK to showcase ITURRI’s expertise.'
The new vehicle includes a number of specific solutions for the airport market including a lower centre of gravity to improve vehicle stability; increased power from a 6x6 chassis, which also includes off road capability; and a slightly lighter body made of a recyclable specific composite known as EcoPoly Fibre, which allows for greater water carriage and improved acceleration. For the crew, a new cab design offers improved space and provides 180 degree visibility, a UK CAA requirement.
A unique factor specific to the UK market is the inclusion of an external monitor platform, which sits just behind the cab. This provides the officer in charge an external space from which to fully view an emergency situation and co-ordinate the rest of the crew.
Oxford Airport's 23 full-time fire crew upgraded from Cat 2 RFF to Cat 6 RFF capability a few years ago, making it suitable for supporting the largest aircraft using its 1592m runway including Airbus, Boeing and Embraer bizliners and regional airliner models. In 2012, a new fire station will be built to accommodate the larger Iturri-type tenders.
Ground service equipment has also been upgraded during the summer with a new £60,000 Lektro tug suitable for 55-tonne jets.
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