Air Tractor AT-802F

The Air Tractor AT-802F is the world’s premier purpose-built Single Engine Air Tanker (S.E.A.T.), engineered specifically to combat fast-moving wildfires before they grow out of control. In the high-stakes environment of wildland firefighting, speed and agility are the ultimate assets. The AT-802F excels at rapid-response deployment, allowing fire managers to strike initial blazes immediately, contain flames to protect rural communities, and significantly lower overall suppression costs before heavier assets even arrive on scene.

By operating an AT-802F, agencies and contractors benefit from unparalleled tactical flexibility. Unlike massive heavy tankers that require major regional airport infrastructure, this nimble aircraft can comfortably stage from small, remote airstrips, dirt paths, or temporary forward bases located right on the fire line. Whether dropping advanced fire retardant ahead of a wind-driven front, delivering water directly onto hot spots, or applying suppressant foam to protect critical infrastructure, the AT-802F optimizes the line-building process and provides continuous ground support where heavy tankers cannot safely maneuver.

Surgical Precision & Advanced Fire Gate Controls

The standout capability of the AT-802F is its ability to maneuver safely through extremely challenging terrain. Powered by the legendary Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67F turboprop engine delivering a massive 1,600 horsepower, the plane maintains incredible climbing rates and responsive handling even when operating at maximum load in thick smoke and turbulent, mountainous air. The heavy-duty airframe features Air Tractor’s signature crash-attaching steel fuselage structure, built specifically to handle the brutal, high-load stresses of low-altitude firefighting cycles.

At the heart of its mission performance is an advanced, computer-controlled fire door telemetry system. Pilots can select the exact coverage level and drop rate from the cockpit, ensuring the 820-gallon payload is delivered with pinpoint, surgical precision. The digital interface automatically adjusts the doors based on airspeed, creating an exceptionally uniform retardant line that maximizes ground crew effectiveness. For modern aerial firefighting operations demanding high-tech flow controls, rapid 5-minute ground reloads, and absolute reliability, the AT-802F is the definitive global standard.

Why Choose the AT-802F?

  • Surgical Initial Attack: Designed to deploy immediately and operate close to the ground, filling in critical retardant gaps left by heavy air tankers.
  • Rapid Turnaround Staging: Utilizes fields as short as 1,000 yards and features a high-volume 3-inch loading system for full reloads in under 5 minutes.
  • Advanced Computerized Drop Gate: Equipped with a digital, pilot-programmable fire gate for highly precise coverage levels and consistent line building.

Technical Specifications

  • Engine Type: Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67F Turboprop
  • Engine Power: 1,600 SHP @ 1,700 RPM
  • Propeller: Hartzell 5-Blade Constant Speed Structural Aluminum
  • Retardant Tank Capacity: 820 US Gallons (3,104 L)
  • Useful Load: 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg)
  • Empty Weight: 6,500 lbs (2,948 kg) with firefighting equipment
  • Maximum Take-off Weight: 16,000 lbs (7,257 kg)
  • Fuel Capacity: 254 US Gallons (961 L)
  • Wingspan: 59.2 ft (18.04 m)
  • Wing Area: 401 sq ft (37.29 m²)

Flight Performance Data

  • Typical Patrol Speed: 150–180 mph (130–156 kts)
  • Cruising Speed (Ferrying): 198 mph (172 kts) at 8,000 ft
  • Maximum Range: 500 miles (805 km) loaded ferry distance
  • Rate of Climb: 850 fpm at 16,000 lbs under hot conditions
  • Take-off Distance: 2,000 ft at maximum landing weight
  • Stall Speed (Flaps Down): 91 mph (79 kts) at full firefighting weight
  • Stall Speed (As Usually Landed): 64 mph (55 kts)