Glacier Country News

Today, a group of lawmakers from Montana and California urged the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to expedite the certification process for six CH-47D Chinook helicopters owned by Billings Flying Service (BFS). These helicopters are intended to assist in combating wildfires in Los Angeles and throughout the fire season. The delay in certification has prevented BFS from deploying their full firefighting capability.

Billings Flying Service has been involved in firefighting efforts in Southern California since 1998, under contract with the State of California since 2018. Although four BFS helicopters are currently stationed in Los Angeles, they cannot be fully utilized due to bureaucratic delays. Typically, similar aircraft certifications take between 21 days and five months. However, almost two years have passed since BFS acquired these helicopters from the Royal Netherlands Air Force without FAA certification.

"Government and bureaucratic delays should never get in the way of saving people’s lives and livelihoods," said Congressman Ryan Zinke. "I urge the FAA to expedite this process and immediately consider these aircraft for certification so they can get to work fighting fires and saving lives in Los Angeles."

Senator Daines emphasized the urgency of resolving this delay: "Time is of the essence not just for Montanans, but for much of the West as we’ve witnessed with California’s merciless wildfires."

Senator Sheehy added, "The families that are being affected by catastrophic wildfires cannot afford to wait around on government inaction or delays caused by bureaucratic red tape."

Congressman Downing expressed his support for swift action: "When federal red tape and ridiculous bureaucracy prevent groups like the BFS from expanding their reach, it's time for Congress to take action."

In a letter addressed to Mr. Fields at the FAA, lawmakers highlighted concerns about ongoing delays in issuing a restricted category type certificate necessary for deeming these helicopters airworthy. They stressed that quick action is needed due to year-round wildfire occurrences.

Billings Flying Service is based in Billings, Montana, providing aerial firefighting support through heavy lift helicopters. Despite a history of timely certifications with similar projects, this current endeavor has faced nearly two years without resolution.

Lawmakers requested an explanation from the FAA should further delays occur, including any additional requirements or information needed from BFS and an expected timeline for completing certification.