Did anyone see the 747 firebomber...

[DenverDude2002]

Hey avbug whats the current status of getting air tankers back in the air? I know here in Colorado its already drier than it was even last year, I have a bad feeling we'll be needing those air tankers a lot unless we get some major precipitation soon.

 

[EagleRJ]

The best platform is probably an amphibian that can scoop water from a reservoir or lake, like the PBY or CL-215/415. That gives the shortest turn-around possible and the most retardant on target.
The Japanese build a four-engine turboprop flying boat that would make a powerful tanker, and it would be much more practical than a 747.

Anyone know if the Martin Mars flying boats are still flying?