What distinguishes an ARFF vehicle from a standard fire apparatus?

The distinguishing feature of an ARFF (Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting) vehicle is its design for rapid response to aviation incidents and its incorporation of specialized firefighting systems tailored for aircraft fires. ARFF vehicles are specifically engineered to manage the unique challenges presented by aircraft emergencies, such as fuel spills and materials that burn at high temperatures, and thus often include advanced firefighting foams and high-flow water systems.

Their rapid response capability is critical in mitigating the hazards associated with aircraft incidents, where every second counts. Unlike standard fire apparatus, which may be geared toward municipal fire response, ARFF vehicles have equipment and configurations optimized for the type of incidents that occur in an airport environment. This includes features like increased mobility on uneven terrain, specialized nozzles for combating aviation fires, and often the ability to move quickly across the tarmac. Standard fire apparatus may not be equipped with these unique features needed for effective firefighting in an aviation context.

While ARFF vehicles can have larger water capacities or smaller sizes depending on the model, their primary distinction lies in their specialized design focused on rapid response and the unique firefighting systems needed for aircraft emergencies.