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Aircraft Base Radio Operator

ABRO Incident Position Description

The Aircraft Base Radio Operator (ABRO) serves as a member of a helibase staff, assisting the Helibase Manager (HEBM) in the performance and completion of helicopter missions. The ABRO reports to the HEBM and works in the Aviation functional area.

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Leadership Level 1, Follower (Provide Action)

  • For additional information review Level 1 description, expected behaviors and knowledge, suggested development goals, and self-study opportunities.

Prepare and Mobilize

  • Ensure individual readiness.
  • Gather critical information pertinent to the assignment.
  • Travel to and check in at assignment.
  • Obtain briefing from previous shift/assignment position as necessary.

Build the Team

  • Conduct self in a professional manner.
  • Identify and participate in a common operating picture.
  • Apply Incident Command System (ICS) terminology, organization, and command structure.
  • Model leadership values and principles.

Perform Aircraft Base Radio Operator Position-Specific Duties

  • Provide aircraft advisories and mission information prior to aircraft takeoff/landing.
  • Flight follow aircraft at the incident.
  • Manage communication with various aircraft and incident positions using multiple radios and frequencies.
  • Use appropriate NWCG Standards for Helicopter Operations (NSHO), PMS 510 forms to document relevant flight and mission related information.
  • Plan for and respond to medical and aircraft emergencies as stated in the Incident Action Plan (IAP)/Helibase Mishap Response Plan.
  • Close out aircraft base at the end of the workday.

Communicate and Coordinate

  • Demonstrate strong verbal communication skills.
  • Ensure proper use of radios.
  • Communicate and coordinate with assigned aviation resources and other incident personnel.
  • Participate in helibase operational briefings, debriefs, and/or After Action Reviews (AARs).

Manage Risk

  • Apply the Risk Management Process.
  • Ensure own and others’ safety and welfare.

Document

  • Complete all administrative tasks and documentation in an accurate and timely manner.

Demobilize

  • Prepare for and implement demobilization.

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NWCG Latest Announcements

New Aircraft Flight Schedule Form, PMS 249

Date:  April 17, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: National Coordination System Committee

A new publication from the National Coordination System Committee (NCSC) is now available. The NWCG Aircraft Flight Schedule Form, PMS 249, will be used for aviation crews and dispatch to share flight information that is needed for resource tracking, and if needed, for emergency procedures.

For further details, please contact your NCSC representative. 

References:

NCSC Memo 26-01: Implementation of NWCG Aircraft Flight Schedule Form, PMS 249

NWCG Aircraft Flight Schedule Form, PMS 249

New Glossary Term for Review

Date:  April 15, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Data Standards and Terminology Board (DSTB)

The Data Standards and Terminology Board is requesting feedback on a new glossary term: Resource Protection Measure (RPM).

The proposed definition is: Practical guidance provided for incident personnel in a manner in which incident objectives can be achieved while reducing impacts to identified resources across the landscape. RPMs are informed by, but not restricted to, Minimum Impact Strategies and Tactics (MIST).

Please review, share with your subgroups, and provide feedback as appropriate through the following form: Request Feedback The comment period will close May 10, 2026.

Thank you for your engagement in the NWCG glossary process – your participation is key to our success.

References:

Glossary Request Feedback

Quarter Three Materials for the 2025-2026 Wildland Fire Leadership Campaign Now Available

Date:  April 1, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Leadership Committee

NWCG is excited to announce that Quarter Three materials for the 2025/2026 Wildland Fire Leadership Campaign are now available. This annual initiative offers all students of leadership and wildland fire management an opportunity to engage with essential leadership skills and knowledge needed to lead effectively in dynamic environments.

Quarter Three materials focus on Leadership Level 3: Leader of People (Develop Intent). Leadership Level 3 is where your values, your team, and your influence come together. Leaders of People put their teams first, build trust, and lead with authenticity. They mentor future leaders and shape decisions up and down the chain.

References:

2025/2026 NWCG Leadership Campaign - Leadership Levels

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program

Leadership Committee

WFSTAR 2026 Core Components Module Package and 2025 Fire Year in Review Now Available

Date:  March 23, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Joe Schindel

The 2026 Core Components Module Package for RT-130, Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR) and the 2025 Fire Year in Review are now available on the NWCG website. The 2026 Core Components Module Package provides all content needed to deliver RT-130.

References:

2026 Core Components Module Package

2025 Fire Year in Review Module