‍PORT ALBERNI — Coulson Aviation has announced the launch of its Boeing 767 VLAT (Very Large Airtanker) program to replace aging aerial firefighting aircraft with a more modern, capable, and reliable platform.

Coulson Aviation's main headquarters are in Port Alberni, British Columbia, Canada, where the company started, but they have significant operational bases and offices globally, including locations in Reno, Nevada (USA) and Bankstown, Australia.

“The firefighting community is seeing rapid changes in available airframe types, and agencies need solutions that are safe, efficient, and supportable for decades,” said Britt Coulson, President and CEO of Coulson Aviation USA.

What Is a VLAT?

VLATs (Very Large Airtankers) are aerial firefighting aircraft designed to carry extremely large volumes of water or fire retardant to combat large-scale wildfires. These aircraft are typically used during major fire events where rapid, wide-area retardant delivery is required to slow fire spread and protect critical infrastructure.

VLATs, such as the Boeing 767, offer clear advantages over legacy platforms. Current VLAT operations are primarily dominated by older aircraft, most notably the McDonnell Douglas DC-10, which remains the most widely used VLAT today, along with earlier-generation Boeing 737 conversions. While effective, many of these aircraft face increasing maintenance and lifecycle challenges.

Coulson’s 767 VLAT

Coulson’s Boeing 767 VLAT will use the largest version of the company’s RADS retardant delivery system, allowing it to release fire retardant more effectively. The aircraft can also be converted back into a passenger plane, with space for more than 160 passengers if needed.

In its firefighting role, the Boeing 767 is expected to carry more fire retardant than any VLAT currently in service. This would make it especially useful in large, dangerous wildfire situations.

With improved fuel efficiency, higher payload capacity, and easier long-term maintenance, the Boeing 767 VLAT is expected to be a more practical and reliable option for future wildfire firefighting operations worldwide.

While not related to commercial aviation, we do like to see how aircraft like the Boeing 767 are used to benefit communities, especially in emergency situations.