Martin Mars To Mexico

A Martin Mars water bomber is heading south to douse fires in Mexico.

Massive brush fires are burning along the country's border with the U.S. and the Mexican government is appealing to the Port Alberni-based Coulson Group for help.

The company has just signed an agreement to send "Hawaii Mars" down to assist with firefighting efforts.

The Coulson Group's waterbomber base on the shores of Sproat Lake is a busy place with just days to get ready to take this aircraft on a very long journey.

The aircraft will fly down to Southern California, refuel - then continue to the U.S. border with Texas.

But it won't be landing at airports - lakes and harbours only - that means they'll have to be completely independent.

The Martin Mars bomber was originally designed as a troop carrier for the second world war - then modified to fight fires. It has a 27,000 litre capacity. It's a tool perfectly suited for the Mexico fires.

The Coulson Group has again signed with the province to help with BC's wildfires for 90 days starting in June.

Follow Jonathan Bartlett on Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/ANewsJonathan

Category:

News & Politics

Tags:

• /A\ News Vancouver Island
• Sproat Lake
• Port Alberni
• Martin Mars
• Water Bomber
• Hawaii
• Mexico
• Fire Fighting
• Coulson Group
• Jonathan Bartlett