Game Aerospace’s GB2 firefighting aircraft has completed its first flight, marking a key milestone as the company moves ahead with flight testing, FAA certification and production.
The first flight took place at Louise Thaden Field in Bentonville, Arkansas. According to Game Aerospace, the GB2 performed as expected and completed all planned initial evaluations.
Designed specifically for aerial firefighting, the GB2 can carry up to 1,200 gallons of mission payload and 400 gallons of fuel, with a maximum gross weight of 19,000 pounds. The aircraft has an empty weight of 6,050 pounds.
The aircraft features a two-seat cockpit, which Game Aerospace says provides flexibility for both training and operational missions.
Game Aerospace describes the GB2 as the first purpose-built firefighting aircraft developed in the United States. The company says the aircraft has been designed around the specific requirements of aerial firefighting, with an emphasis on providing a cost-effective solution for operators.
“The GB2’s successful first flight is the result of years of engineering, craftsmanship, and dedication from our entire team, as well as great collaboration with the FAA,” said Philipp Steinbach, CEO, co-founder and test pilot at Game Aerospace.
The aircraft’s development could also be relevant to fire services in the Middle East, where aerial firefighting capabilities are used to support operations in remote and challenging terrain. Saudi Arabia and the UAE, among other countries in the region, have developed capabilities involving aircraft for emergency response and firefighting operations.
Following the successful first flight, Game Aerospace will continue its flight-test programme as it works towards FAA Part 23 standard-category certification and eventual production of the GB2.
