Helicopter Pilot Urges Reform of Wildfire Response

2026-02-24 - 14:05

A helicopter pilot has urged authorities to equip private aircraft with water buckets to improve Iceland’s response to wildfires, as reported by Vísir. Reynir Freyr Pétursson, a pilot at Heliair, said smaller helicopters fitted with detachable water containers could operate more efficiently than relying solely on large aircraft operated by the Icelandic Coast Guard. What's the Story? Proposal by Heliair pilot Reynir Freyr Pétursson to equip smaller helicopters with water buckets for wildfire response Suggestion following fire near Elliðavatn and reference to limited Coast Guard helicopter availability Discussions mentioned between Heliair, Norðurflug and the state on potential service agreements, no contract finalised Wildfire in the Capital Region, 2026. Photo: Sigrún Edda Halldórsdóttir. Response capacity questioned In his comments to the news agency, Reynir argued that reforming the local response to wildfires would reduce pressure on emergency services, including the Capital Region Fire Department. “We, who are in helicopter operations, have always felt it would be a mistake to use expensive rescue equipment in this kind of mission,” says Reynir Freyr. He noted that each bucket used by the Coast Guard carries around two tonnes of water, while smaller helicopters can carry containers holding 800 to 1,100 litres. “They are faster and can fetch water from smaller water sources.” Referring to a recent fire near Elliðavatn, Reynir Freyr said: “If one summer house burns down, it’s immediately much more expensive than the cost of this.” He added that two helicopter companies, Heliair and Norðurflug, have previously discussed potential service agreements with the state, though no contract has been finalised. “But it’s never been taken all the way through.” Reynir Freyr said similar systems operate in neighbouring countries and suggested a partnership model could be considered in Iceland.