Airbus has successfully completed a first-of-its-kind trial linking aircraft, helicopters, drones and ground crews to improve the speed and accuracy of aerial firefighting operations.
Conducted near Nîmes in southern France, the trial demonstrated how real-time data sharing and AI-driven analysis can significantly reduce the time between fire detection and suppression, while improving the precision of water drops.
The exercise brought together a range of assets, including an Airbus H130 FlightLab helicopter, an ATR 72 test aircraft, a Cirrus SR20, multiple drones and ground-based firefighting teams. A dedicated mobile network was deployed to connect all elements, allowing data to be transmitted and processed in real time.
During the trial, drones and the SR20 captured imagery of the fire area, including infrared data, which was relayed to a mobile command centre. The information was analysed alongside satellite data, terrain mapping and wind conditions to build a detailed operational picture.
AI-driven systems then generated optimised flight paths and water drop points, which were transmitted to airborne assets, including the helicopter and the ATR 72 acting as a water bomber.
The scenarios were developed in collaboration with French firefighting authorities and were designed to reflect real-world operational conditions.
Airbus says the trial marks a significant step towards developing an integrated firefighting ecosystem, combining aerial assets, ground crews and digital systems to improve coordination and effectiveness.
The company is continuing to develop the concept as part of its broader effort to address the growing global challenge of forest fires.