A Super Scooper-type aircraft was caught performing a water scooping maneuver at Skilak Lake, Alaska, as part of efforts to combat the wildfire in the Swan Lake area. The impressive footage was captured by Scott Slavik of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).
These aircraft are widely used in fighting wildfires when large bodies of water, such as lakes or rivers, are nearby. They can scoop up to 6,000 liters of water in about 12 seconds during a run of approximately 400 meters along the surface.
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In addition to their efficiency, these aircraft are essential in mountainous or hard-to-access terrain, where ground crews struggle to operate. The use of drones and planes like the Super Scooper allows for a rapid and precise response, helping to contain the flames in the early stages of the fire. 
“Some of our firefighters are lucky enough to get up close to these giant aircraft every year!” commented the USFWS team on social media.
The footage published by Slavik shows the aircraft gently skimming the lake’s surface to refill before soaring back toward the fire. The scene has gone viral as a symbol of the technology and precision that help save entire forests from destruction.
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Source and images: Scott Slavik via USFWS / Instagram @usfws. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
