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Communicating with Aviation Resources

Communicating with Aviation Resources

The Aviation Training Delivery Team and National Training Delivery Team have developed this short video to promote aviation safety:

You can play the embedded video above or scan the QR code below to watch it. 

Lineart of helicopter flying over mountain to drop water on smoke, while a man in hardhat reviews notepad. Communicating with aviation resources.
QR code for communicating with aviation.

Discussion Questions:

  • Describe some examples of safety concerns you would want to point out to a pilot when they are arriving on scene of an incident or a new division.
  • What considerations should be made regarding communication when an aircraft is approaching an incident?
  • How do we communicate priorities to pilots when there isn't an Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS) or Helicopter Coordinator (HLCO) on scene yet?
  • How do we communicate and verify that “the line is clear” prior to an incoming drop or bucket? Who is responsible for communicating with the aerial resources to notify whether the drop zone is clear?
  • Who is responsible for communicating with ground resources to notify them of incoming aircraft and intended mission?
  • Discuss any past experiences where there was miscommunication with aviation assets.
    • What did it impact?
    • How could that miscommunication have been improved?
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Date: December 11, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
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Do you know someone working in wildland fire who strives to make positive change and is undeterred by obstacles or setbacks? Now is your chance to give that person the acknowledgment they deserve by nominating them for a Paul Gleason Lead by Example Award.

This award, is presented by the NWCG Leadership Committee to remember Paul Gleason's contributions to the wildland fire community and to recognize individuals or groups that exhibit the same spirit and dedication to leadership – those who lead by example.

Nominations can be submitted via email with an attached Lead by Example Form to BLM_FA_Leadership_Feedback@blm.gov or through the online form

Tips for successful nominations and more information can be found on the Lead by Example webpage. All nominations must be submitted by December 31, 2025.

References:

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