Aerial Firefighting Costs Set to Soar Amid Rising Jet Fuel Prices

As wildfire season intensifies, taxpayers face a potential doubling of fuel costs

"The demanding maneuvers required for wildfire fighting increase fuel consumption compared to standard flight."
— Willis Curdy, retired firefighting aircraft pilot

In the summer of 2021, five "Fire Boss" aircraft from Dauntless Air skimmed a lake to collect water for fighting a wildfire in Washington state. The U.S. government relies on private contractors for nearly all of its 500 wildfire-fighting aircraft.

Last year, these aircraft used approximately $50 million worth of jet fuel. Due to rising jet fuel prices following the war in Iran, that cost could nearly double to $100 million if this fire season mirrors last year. Taxpayers will bear the increased expense.

Contractors Can Pass Costs to the Government

Most aerial firefighting companies have contracts that allow them to pass higher fuel costs to the U.S. government. This means the financial burden of rising prices falls directly on federal budgets.

The U.S. Forest Service has budgeted $45 million for fire aviation fuel this year, $7 million less than spent last year. The agency has stated it has flexibility to spend more if needed.

Fuel Shortages Emerge as a Greater Concern

Brett L'Esperance, CEO of Dauntless Air, expressed concern about potential jet fuel shortages rather than prices.

He noted that most jet fuel used in the West is refined in California, where refinery stocks are at the lowest level in over two years. The American Petroleum Institute indicated that California relies on imported oil—imports that have been disrupted by the war in Iran.

"Shortages, not just prices, could disrupt firefighting operations this season."
— Brett L'Esperance, CEO of Dauntless Air

The Forest Service has not responded to questions about potential fuel shortages.

A Critical Fire Season Ahead

Federal forecasters predict an active fire season in much of the West. Combined with rising costs and uncertain fuel supplies, the coming months pose significant challenges for aerial firefighting operations.