Spur Aviation info

[Movin' on up!]

Looking for the good, the bad and the ugly on Spur Aviation in Twin Falls Idaho. Thanks

 

[avbug]

I don't think you'll find much bad. I've flown several of their airplanes, before they went to Spur. They're a respected company that does a lot of flying during the fire season in an air attack role.

 

[Movin' on up!]

Thanks avbug. I figured I can get more replies if I post on both places. Anyway, good to hear they are a good outfit.

 

[BoilerPilot]

Spur

I'm with avbug. They seem to be a very respectable company out west during fire season. I have flown tag-team air attack missions with their crews and spent countless hours on the ground with their guys. They seem to have decent equipment and ok maint. Just don't think you're walking into the corporate jet job when you walk in the door. The fire fighting world is a different kind of flying. It's def a love/hate relationship. Let me know if you have any other fire related questions.

 

[Movin' on up!]

i am trying to get on with them. I think I would like the seasonal type of work fire provides. How are the days flying fire?

 

[BoilerPilot]

I'm not sure how their hiring works. Most of us are all setup as contractors, but some I know are on salary. Fire fighting if you haven't done it start at daylight or a tad before and then end at dusk or a shade later depending on your Region. Do not be surprised to have 5 hour legs in the AC50. I've done a 5:20 before with the power pulled back as it normally is. This normally consists of flying circles and trying to maintain altitude for all five hours. You will see interesting things, you will save lives, property, etc, but you will work hard for it and remember it is a government contract position 98% of the time. I have done a private mission or two, but not much. The other thing is you best be ok with not living in a Marriott while on the road. You're lucky to get the roach motel in some of the places. The nice thing is usually the air resources get to hog the rooms before the ground crews make it to the scene. However, I have slept in less than desirable places, the contract does say you can and will be placed in fire camps if the government sees the need. I've never had to do it personally, but I've visited them many times and I know guys who have had to do it. Other than that, it is a good time and most of the other crews that you'll work with are usually great people. Let me know if you have any more specific questions.

 

[Movin' on up!]

BoilerPilot,
Are you working with them this year? I will PM you with more questions if you are.