This legislation, known as the Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act of 2025, significantly reauthorizes the Department of Defense's program for selling surplus aircraft and parts for wildfire suppression. It extends the period during which these sales can occur, ensuring continued access to vital resources for aerial firefighting efforts. Specifically, the Act permits the sale of aircraft and parts from its enactment date until October 1, 2035 . It also clarifies that these aircraft may be used for applying both fire retardant and water , broadening their utility in combating wildfires. The primary goal is to enhance national wildfire suppression capabilities by facilitating the transfer of suitable military assets.
Aviation and airportsFiresForests, forestry, treesMilitary assistance, sales, and agreements
Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act of 2025
USA119th CongressS-160| Senate
| Updated: 6/12/2025
This legislation, known as the Aerial Firefighting Enhancement Act of 2025, significantly reauthorizes the Department of Defense's program for selling surplus aircraft and parts for wildfire suppression. It extends the period during which these sales can occur, ensuring continued access to vital resources for aerial firefighting efforts. Specifically, the Act permits the sale of aircraft and parts from its enactment date until October 1, 2035 . It also clarifies that these aircraft may be used for applying both fire retardant and water , broadening their utility in combating wildfires. The primary goal is to enhance national wildfire suppression capabilities by facilitating the transfer of suitable military assets.