Boeing 747 Global SuperTanker at the LNU Lightning Complex fires

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 14 ต.ค. 2024
  • Recorded 8/20/2020 Near Lake Sonoma California.
    The 747 Supertanker is one of several aerial firefighting air tankers derived from various Boeing 747 models. The aircraft are rated to carry up to 19,600 US gallons (74,000 L) of fire retardant or water. They are the largest aerial firefighting aircraft in the world.
    Initially developed by Evergreen International Aviation, the first Supertanker was based on a 747-200 (N470EV, tanker/tail number 947), and never entered service. The second Supertanker (N479EV, tanker/tail number 979) was based on a 747-100 originally manufactured by Boeing in 1971 for Delta Air Lines. It entered service for the first time in 2009, fighting a fire in Cuenca, Spain, and made its first American operation on August 31, 2009 at the Oak Glen Fire in California. It is no longer in service. The third 747 Supertanker was developed by Global Supertanker Services which acquired most of Evergreen's assets. The Global Supertanker (N744ST, tanker/tail number 944) is a Boeing 747-400 dubbed the Spirit of John Muir. It was certified for firefighting flights by the Federal Aviation Administration in September 2016 and fought fires in Chile and Israel before being contracted by U.S. officials to fight California wildfires in 2017. It also took part in firefighting in Bolivia in August 2019.

ความคิดเห็น • 3.1K

  • @frannelk
    @frannelk 4 ปีที่แล้ว +377

    I see 2 things: An incredible skilled pilot, and an incredible skilled camera man.

    • @wcolby
      @wcolby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +46

      Thank you, I am honored... (I am sure the pilot is too)

    • @seedplanter7173
      @seedplanter7173 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I see cancer causing payload.. that's just me I guess.

    • @wcolby
      @wcolby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +57

      @ SeedPlanter yes, it is just you.

    • @lauriewagner4349
      @lauriewagner4349 4 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      She is gorgeous! I've always thought she is the most beautiful plane in the sky. But I hear they quit making them.☹️. What a shame....and I always wanted to fly on one.😒
      The cameraman filmed her with a ton of respect.

    • @J354CAO
      @J354CAO 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Wow !!. That's some amazing flying

  • @TralfazConstruction
    @TralfazConstruction 4 ปีที่แล้ว +502

    Best Cinematography Award to the camera operator. That's some _real_ flying too.

    • @Bibibosh
      @Bibibosh 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Yeah mate. Thats what she said.

    • @paulsuprono7225
      @paulsuprono7225 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      This 747 found a NEW profession. NO more airlines and now fire control !

    • @MetalMilitia072583
      @MetalMilitia072583 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      This guy is ahead of his time! People are still filming vertically 😂

    • @anton4791
      @anton4791 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I believe the camera is automated. Locked onto the plane and the camera follows it. Allows the "cameraman" just switch between lens

    • @sheilasembly-crum8447
      @sheilasembly-crum8447 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Talk about impressive piloting skills!

  • @trecoolable
    @trecoolable 4 ปีที่แล้ว +154

    To everyone saying they missed: The goal of flame retardant is to prevent the further spread of the fire by spreading it in front of the growing fire. Imagine drawing a line where the fire has a harder time to spread. They aren't able to put it out completely but rather they are doing their job by containing the spread of the fire. Take some time to think about it and do research before you criticize over these pilots' work.

    • @mancuby6679
      @mancuby6679 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      TreCoolable Well done !!!! 👍👍

    • @julius855
      @julius855 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      I mean cmon people this should be common knowledge

    • @wcolby
      @wcolby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      @@julius855 So the plumber was fixing my toilet the other day and said the 3/8 -1/4 turn compression valve that I installed on the 1/2 inch copper pipe was the problem. I should have used a 1/2 threaded fitzer valve and it would have been fine. and I swear he said "that should be common knowledge". and i said ya.... for plumbers.

    • @julius855
      @julius855 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      @rgtrooper13 its less about aerial firefighting but more about the fact that so many people dont know you can fight a fire without directly Extingushing it
      Thinking about it this is less common knowledge but more common sense

    • @jorgeestrada5713
      @jorgeestrada5713 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ok. Thank you for the information. I didn't know.

  •  4 ปีที่แล้ว +37

    I am certainly no pilot, but the extremely high level of skill and bravery from that pilot and crew is absolutely incredible.

    • @sethfroman7044
      @sethfroman7044 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Here Right Now was just thinking the same thing. Pilot and crew have giant balls maneuvering in and out of those valleys and mountains was just so skillful and amazing to watch.

  • @willcoleman3427
    @willcoleman3427 4 ปีที่แล้ว +32

    These pilots are my absolutely hero’s. If you knew how dangerous this actually was, how stressful and the amount of concentration and skill. All these guys, from the puddle jumper to 747 are men and women who exemplify courage.

  • @babuphukan8920
    @babuphukan8920 4 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Oscar should go to the man who captured the entire event 🙏🏻👍🏻
    Love and respect from India 🇮🇳

  • @jguo
    @jguo 4 ปีที่แล้ว +27

    A salute to all the courageous firefighters! Earlier this year when Australia was burning, the nearest fires were merely 30km away from our house. The tankers from the US came to help and very sadly, a Hercules tanker crashed and her crew perished. Those people risk their lives to save others and it is more than a job they are doing. You are true heroes in this world!

  • @michaelfarrell8133
    @michaelfarrell8133 4 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    This plane is the world's largest firefighting air tanker. The 747 will always remain the most gorgeous aircraft ever made. Long live the Queen!

  • @robertcornelius8056
    @robertcornelius8056 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Aside from the amazing flying, what an iconic beauty this 50 year old bird is

  • @barry-kukula1865
    @barry-kukula1865 4 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Hats off to those pilots. These people have balls of steel. May god be with them!

  • @cyclingoptions9007
    @cyclingoptions9007 4 ปีที่แล้ว +31

    This tanker along with the DC10 and the other tankers are reloaded at McClellan Airport in Sacramento. They are making round trips from dawn to dusk. Hard and dangerous work for both the air and ground crews. Thank you for your service!

    • @richardparker9595
      @richardparker9595 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      They should aquire some Beriav 200 fire fighters planes from Russia.

    • @cyclingoptions9007
      @cyclingoptions9007 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@richardparker9595 Airports on the Southern California desert are loaded with surplus jumbo jets available to convert to tankers if necessary.

    • @richardparker9595
      @richardparker9595 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@cyclingoptions9007 but these planes are not suitable for and not built for firefighting.

    • @cyclingoptions9007
      @cyclingoptions9007 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@richardparker9595 They seem reliable and are doing the job. They DC-10s have been used for about 10 years. I understand that many of the retrofits are made at the Chico Airport about 100 miles north of Sacramento. If we already have suitable equipment available and can put our own people to work modifying them why send money overseas?

    • @richardparker9595
      @richardparker9595 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@cyclingoptions9007 These 747 planes are too expensive to operate and mantain. Where as you can purchase a new BE 200 for the cost of operating the 747 for 1 year.

  • @jamesb2291
    @jamesb2291 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Amazing. I honestly never even knew this plane existed. Look at the wing loading on the first pass. She is so heavy and still is flying around gracefully with full flaps. A beautiful aircraft and awesome pilot. Great job!

  • @buntik1687
    @buntik1687 4 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    To see a plane that big flying so low and making those turns is amazing.

    • @bxpress6507
      @bxpress6507 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      This is nothing compared to flutter test each plane has to endure before being certified😁

  • @kVidStream
    @kVidStream 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    She's very graceful. Kudos to the pilot

  • @firewaterforgeofarizona4304
    @firewaterforgeofarizona4304 4 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    The amount of positive flex in those wings is amazing!

    • @mackydog99
      @mackydog99 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      I worked on tail #945 in Marana,AZ also the wing stress test of the 747 reached 29ft before breaking.

  • @johno9507
    @johno9507 4 ปีที่แล้ว +27

    Who else was appreciating how good the camera was?

    • @wcolby
      @wcolby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I was.

  • @phillm156
    @phillm156 4 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    Looks like a choreographed dance. That stabilized camera on the chopper is also impressive.

  • @michaelbailey1578
    @michaelbailey1578 4 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    He or she is a pilot alright, and a good one too. Stick and rudder work
    at low altitude in rugged terrain in a 747-400? That takes a damned good
    pilot and crew. The camera work was superb as well.

  • @finaloption...
    @finaloption... 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I just learned the 747 is far more powerful and capable in the right hands than I had ever imagined.

  • @sherlock8627
    @sherlock8627 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    To the pilots of this beautiful air craft and all fire fighters ground and air. please be safe and get home to your loved ones. Thank you for your efforts and dedication. kindest regards P R Holmes Australia

  • @morrisschwarts4826
    @morrisschwarts4826 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

    The flex in her wings before and after the drop is dramatic.

  • @David-yy7lb
    @David-yy7lb 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Just awesome to see the queen of the skies with the flaps and slats extended for low speed flight👍🏾👍🏾....the A380 cannot compete with a tried and true legend.....Hail to the queen of the skies 👍🏾👍🏾

    • @b3j8
      @b3j8 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yeah it is. I've seen enough 747 "last flight" videos. Here's one old sweetheart that's still up there, but doing a job I'll bet her designers never thought she'd be doing! Boeing 747, accept no substitute!

  • @taradrolma2774
    @taradrolma2774 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    The communities are so grateful to have this bird in the sky.

  • @shaunroberts9361
    @shaunroberts9361 4 ปีที่แล้ว +32

    Wow. Incredible. Flying a huge jet like a crop duster. .

    • @moysoyjoy
      @moysoyjoy 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Shaun Roberts it really is! During the Tubbs Fire, I was able to see it in action. Truly amazing ✈️

  • @rla1000
    @rla1000 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Never would have dreamed a 747 was so agile. Amazing photography! Thumbs up.

  • @clqudy4750
    @clqudy4750 4 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    My God! What a beast! And that's some seriously ballsy flyin' Guess they ripped the terrain warning alarm right out in that model, huh? Way impressive!

  • @64sunda
    @64sunda 4 ปีที่แล้ว +159

    Inside plane : pull up terrain terrain .. pull up terrain terrain

    • @AMR15H
      @AMR15H 4 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      Whoop whoop

    • @ceff01
      @ceff01 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Nope he uses terrain ovr button sorry to ruin ur fun

    • @levibailey6256
      @levibailey6256 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Thanks for copying my comment fucker

    • @ceff01
      @ceff01 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@levibailey6256 you stole my comment I report yu

    • @jibethmorel3573
      @jibethmorel3573 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Nothing interesting, never landed😠

  • @darrenkastl7493
    @darrenkastl7493 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    In my opinion, there's not a more beautiful plane than this, any 747 any configuration, any plane anywhere. Period!

  • @IRONHORSE427RACING
    @IRONHORSE427RACING 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    You just can't truly appreciate the shear beauty of what these planes and their pilots can do till you have witnessed it up close and in person. I have seen a 747 almost exactly like this one and several other smaller Tanker Wildfire planes work a fire line and it's something I will never forget.

    • @erichughes284
      @erichughes284 ปีที่แล้ว

      It's mind blowing to be on a small hill and be looking down on them

    • @erichughes284
      @erichughes284 ปีที่แล้ว

      It is something you need to witness to appreciate the beauty like you said.

  • @seungjunrhee
    @seungjunrhee 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    To see such a massive aircraft fly through huge columns of smoke... Definitely the most magnificent footage of an airplane I have ever seen. All hail the fire-fighting queen!

  • @Fadil1954
    @Fadil1954 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Proud to be an Avionics Engineer on this beauty .... the best A/C ever including 737.....made in America

  • @ProctorsGamble
    @ProctorsGamble 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Kudos to the camera operator keeping that beautiful bird centered in the frame from such a distance and from a moving helicopter!

  • @shirleycrooms2737
    @shirleycrooms2737 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Your pilots are amazing, when I look down at that tiny little windshield, you are there piloting that huge beast, amazing!!!! Please stay safe and thank you for your service!!!!

  • @SuisunSymKat
    @SuisunSymKat 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I watched this plane over the Napa/Solano Hills a few years back. The agility of the plane surprised me. The talent of the pilot was awesome! . I never imagined I'd see a 747 make a U-Turn, swoop down in the Valley, then lift upwards as if it were a Sunday drive to enjoy the scenery. I pulled off the road to watch this amazing plane & crew.

    • @timothycook2917
      @timothycook2917 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Didn't Paul McCartney have a song called Sally C? ...oh wait, sorry, that was Sally G 😏

  • @bogdan_n
    @bogdan_n 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    She's old, she's not the biggest of them all anymore, but this graceful, mighty beast will always be THE QUEEN

    • @bigfox9218
      @bigfox9218 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Oh yes she is ain’t no other like her...won’t dare do this with a A380😂🤣

    • @kirkm
      @kirkm 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      not so fast my friend, they were still being built up until a few years ago and in various sizes

  • @guxs1652
    @guxs1652 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Wow, I couldn't believe my eyes that this giant 747 is so beautiful when flying over the trees like birds. Thanks for the video.

  • @marklisa9967
    @marklisa9967 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Just awe inspiring. Not easy to fly that giant bird in those mountains with all of the thermals and eddies and currents. Queen of the Sky Indeed! He crew is equally awesome!

  • @waltervila33
    @waltervila33 4 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    Come on give it up for these pilots flying the queen of the skies like a prop Cessna

  • @pamelatify
    @pamelatify 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    I live next to the McClellen AFB where this amazing plane is stationed. I LOVE watching this incredible aircraft take off and landing from my home. It is magnificent.

    • @SavageCips
      @SavageCips 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Lucky you got the best seat!

    • @danmilosevich
      @danmilosevich 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      It is an awesome sight!

  • @bravofoxable
    @bravofoxable 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Incredible pilot skills at that altitude! Very good video, thanks.

  • @laurieannrogan1317
    @laurieannrogan1317 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    The plane is absolutely poetry in motion. What a fantastic pilot.

  • @wrav47
    @wrav47 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I never realized what a beautiful plane a 747 is in flight, it looks so graceful.

  • @jerryumfress9030
    @jerryumfress9030 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    What an awesome sight, I tip my hat to the pilot and co pilot

  • @71spicyjenn
    @71spicyjenn 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    This plane AND PILOT are amazing!! In 2017 they saved my little town in California. I was able to witness this giant plane turn around in a canyon that was so close it felt like I could just reach up and touch the wing above my head. Flawless and exciting, 2 small drops in a row by this plane and the huge threat was gone. WHY IS IT NOT STILL ALOWED TO SERVICE OUR FIRES???? I WANT TO KNOW HOW TO GET IT BACK IN SERVICE IN THE US!!!!!!!!

  • @melodydawn
    @melodydawn 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    That bad ass 747 was the same plane that boarided the entrance of our property last week . It was amazing how low altitude he sprayed the boride at , he must have been flying 3.5 stories high to do his drop, we all thought he was going to crash , the best amazing thing I've ever saw in my life . Thank you to the crew , Bless your ❤ & thank you .

  • @jjbrown675
    @jjbrown675 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Saw it fly by earlier and I can hear it circling right now. Can't thank possibly thank them enough.

  • @dianeellis3925
    @dianeellis3925 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    A true hero in her own right⭐️⭐️Just lovely watching her❤️

  • @melissalentz32
    @melissalentz32 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Some of the most extraordinary flying I’ve ever seen. Dropped right over target in a perfect line in two flyovers. That 747 was like a two seater Cessna under that pilot’s control. Bravo and thank you!

  • @videopokernetwork6824
    @videopokernetwork6824 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    You're very generous for posting such a wonderful viewing experience for aviation fans around the world to share. Thank you!

  • @LTF39
    @LTF39 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I don't Know what is more impressive, if it's the plane itself or the cameraman behind the lens

    • @dupeeq
      @dupeeq 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Its computer controlled servo motor doing the job.. that's the ticking noise..

  • @marckelly7305
    @marckelly7305 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Whoever is flying that is a complete badass.

    • @drink15
      @drink15 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Marc Kelly thanks

  • @eugenehowes229
    @eugenehowes229 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    An example of true professionals in action.

  • @reddalahad6451
    @reddalahad6451 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    For those who think that the pilots are missing their mark, they didn't. They're intentionally spraying at the location where the fire is heading, it's to contain and prevent the fire from spreading.

  • @auntbenben
    @auntbenben 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Wow if you have an emotional brokenheart for Cali & her wildfires raging + a love for commercial airliners /jumbo jets this video footage of a Firefighting Supertanker is just phenomenal.

  • @resuwanrazack7253
    @resuwanrazack7253 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    The Queen of the Sky, Elegant and Gracious forever.

    • @mackydog99
      @mackydog99 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      You said it. The most graceful aircraft I have ever seen take off. The wings were designed from a bird. I think an albatross.

  • @patbrown2227
    @patbrown2227 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    This pilot deserves a medal!!!

  • @662wc5
    @662wc5 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I live near where one of the big wildfires started and quickly spread earlier this month. Lucky for us we were upwind and it moved away from us into the foothills over the next few weeks as they fought to contain and then extinguish it. Not so lucky for those in its path, but through the skill and bravery of the firefighters and LE they were able to evacuate everyone in its path and save all but a few structures. My dog and I happened to be at a park near where it started and the first firefighting aircraft were arriving. I later read that there were only three 747 tankers made, only one is still flying (the one in the video), and it flew down from Sacramento that evening to help fight our fire. I think we were standing there watching when it arrived. It came down out of the north, rapidly losing altitude and flying around a mountain before circling lower, getting into position, and making its first pass with retardant. We watched it make several low, banking passes like in the video until the sun started going down and all of the aircraft on scene had to clear out for the night. It was amazing watching them do their job over the next several days with tankers of all sizes, including the 747, a DC-10, and several C-130's.
    en.wikipedia.org/wiki/747_Supertanker

  • @corinnestefanko5300
    @corinnestefanko5300 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Wow! Great slow flight with full flaps. A great pilot. My dad worked on the 747 design at Northrop in 1969.

    • @danmilosevich
      @danmilosevich 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Didn't know Northrop was in on the 747.

    • @corinnestefanko5300
      @corinnestefanko5300 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@danmilosevich hi, yes, they helped design the cargo door locks and other fuselage parts. My dad went up to the Boeing plant in Everett, Washington on the job. It was among time ago but all the Northrop employees got to go on board the TWA 747 open house at LAX. I remember the red and white seats.

    • @Phineas1626
      @Phineas1626 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Corinne Stefanko Are those the cargo door latches at the heart of United flight 811 in 1989?

  • @laurieannrogan1317
    @laurieannrogan1317 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    This is absolutely macnificent video and footage. I think it's actually spectacular. The fire is heartbreaking though. This video is outstanding and really very very mesmerizing. Totally captivating. I really love that plane.

  • @kittygonzalez2827
    @kittygonzalez2827 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    A personal thank you to the crew....you saved our lives as you put out the Glass Fire! And d AETNA PORTION of LNU Complex!

  • @brookekathryn1980
    @brookekathryn1980 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Queen of the sky's flown by pilots with balls of steel! Just look at those flaps and thrust. Serious AOA change as that bird drops her payload! Wow! This is skill!

  • @antonbruce1241
    @antonbruce1241 4 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    These pilots are either completely insane, or they balls of steel!!! A 747 was never designed to fly a couple of hundred feet off the ground, and at just above stall speed. What the guys do with these planes is absolutely fantastic!

    • @jamesweldon9726
      @jamesweldon9726 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Especially when you keep in mind that a smaller 747 is roughly the size of a football field. Totally freaking amazing!

    • @antonbruce1241
      @antonbruce1241 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@jamesweldon9726 And that one's a 747-400 - EVEN LARGER!

    • @drink15
      @drink15 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      There was modifications made for it to this this. It would be as easy with a passenger 747.

    • @datvik7187
      @datvik7187 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      If the 747 wasn't designed to fly at near stall speeds above the ground then what is the 747 doing on final approach for the last 50 years.. 🤯🤪

    • @drink15
      @drink15 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@datvik7187 Landing.

  • @susanshepard7179
    @susanshepard7179 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Now that's some real camera work, pilot action, and the good kind of superspreader needed in California. Thanks and keep safe.

  • @andrewward1887
    @andrewward1887 4 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    To be able to fly a plane that size full of liquid has to take some serious skill hats off to them.

    • @mrgone658
      @mrgone658 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Not to mention a special cradle in the pilot's and first officers seats to accommodate their substantial stones of heavy metal, if you know what I mean.

    • @mirrormirroronthewall1905
      @mirrormirroronthewall1905 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Mr Gone their pair of heavy metal balls. I get what you mean : )

    • @bogdan_n
      @bogdan_n 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@mrgone658 those heavy metal balls must NOT be cradled. They dynamically balance the payload

  • @MrMadBaggins
    @MrMadBaggins 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    A 747 was never supposed to be able to fly and manuver so close to land like this.
    The pilots of this plane are clearly at the top of their game.
    Notice the constant stress of the wings and flaps full, I can only assume they're staying above ground by the headwind heat of the fire and the surrounding valley winds.
    But I'm no expert, simply awesome flying.......

    • @87fixxxer
      @87fixxxer 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      I think it also has something to do that plane is heavy loaded with fire retardant: tens of thousands of tons in main fuselage.

    • @jeffhurckes190
      @jeffhurckes190 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Plane is actually not that heavily loaded. The flaps are fully extended and the slats are out because they cannot fly faster than 150 knots while dropping, as any faster puts too much risk on any nearby ground crew being injured.

  • @benjaminsmith9339
    @benjaminsmith9339 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    It's kinda unreal to see a bird so big fly so low that long with out clipping a ridge and creating an even bigger fire. Props to the pilot with huge clanking balls of steal for doing that job.

  • @ghawk78
    @ghawk78 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    This beautiful aircraft has been flying over my house for the last few days, just after it takes off. It makes the ground shake.

    • @mojo4849
      @mojo4849 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Greg Hawkins Mine, too, East Sacramento.

    • @ghawk78
      @ghawk78 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@mojo4849 Fulton Ave.

  • @SpecialistBR
    @SpecialistBR 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    "Pilot, see that fire?"
    "Yes sir"
    "I don't want to"
    "Yes sir"

  • @TheVenezuelanviewer
    @TheVenezuelanviewer 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Beautiful shoots of this airplane, but more importan, it is a really effective firefighter machine.
    At the sommer time in 2017 a very big forest fire occurs in south of Santiago de Chile. This plane made a really good work and a lot of familys remember with gratitude.
    A Chilean businessman rent an paid the bill, an it was the most importan part of the solution of that catastrophe. God bless them all.

  • @anindochoudhury8926
    @anindochoudhury8926 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Incredible footage..and thanks for the zoom ins. Not often one gets to see a 747 from above..

  • @ronnieclough4800
    @ronnieclough4800 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    WHAT A GREAT PILOT & CREW THAT IS A WHOLE LOTTA AIRCRAFT GOD'S SPEED BLESS YOU ALL!!

  • @grecco_buckliano
    @grecco_buckliano 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Global Supertanker 944. What a BEAST. An absolute beast.

  • @Biggummysmile
    @Biggummysmile 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Pretty sure this is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen.

    • @TheRDMagee
      @TheRDMagee 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Check out the video of Blondie doing Sunday Girl on Top of the Pops,

  • @jamescurran64
    @jamescurran64 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Very good footage of a beautiful aircraft in an impressive operation! Thanks for sharing this and thanks and good luck to all involved in these challenging operations.

  • @a.l9313
    @a.l9313 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Amazing. Thank you for your service. God bless our fire men and women.

  • @davestubbs2124
    @davestubbs2124 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Walt, you've really outdone yourself this time! The amazing footage along with the intense drama of the fire makes it particularly compelling. Getting a ride on a heli overseeing the repellant air drops was incredibly fortunate. You have some tremendous contacts!

    • @wcolby
      @wcolby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      We got lucky, we were covering the fires for more than eight hours and all of a sudden the wind shifted and I got an alert from Flightradar24 that said the 747 was inbound!
      I felt like that alert was sent just to me!

  • @imautuber
    @imautuber 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I would imagine flying that around there is like trying to bring a super tanker into harbour without tugs. That is some amazing flying!

  • @JasonWelchMusic
    @JasonWelchMusic 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    The trophy goes to the photographer... to be able to capture that clear and smooth from a chopper is outstanding...
    Some of the "scenes" could easily pass for cinematic movies.
    We ALMOST got a glimpse of the jet pilot a couple times....
    All that from at LEAST 500-700 feet away... just wow.

    • @wcolby
      @wcolby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Thank you for the kind words... Just so you know, we were at 7000 feet, so this is shot from about 1 & 1/2 miles away.

    • @JasonWelchMusic
      @JasonWelchMusic 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@wcolby thats incredible 👏

    • @matthewwilson5019
      @matthewwilson5019 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@wcolby that's really cool

  • @tommystearns3073
    @tommystearns3073 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Such a beautiful and majestic bird

  • @kurtlesser2684
    @kurtlesser2684 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Superb camera work in this video but that 47 pilot has got to have cajones of pure titanium!

  • @Wait4me2
    @Wait4me2 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Wow, I have never seen such steady and smooth camera work! I didn’t expect to see such finesse, I just loved it. Thank you so much!

    • @tmlafrance
      @tmlafrance 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      A gyro stabilized gimbal is doing some of the work.

  • @microdesigns2000
    @microdesigns2000 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Incredible filming.

  • @daleboice8344
    @daleboice8344 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Flying a 747 like a crop duster. Must be a wild ride. Sign me up for a run.

  • @robertjensen1048
    @robertjensen1048 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    When a massive wildfire is near your street, to see this thing approaching is like a gift from God.

    • @larrys.3992
      @larrys.3992 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      No shit, my house is about 10 miles from the bridge at 2:18

  • @johnfry9010
    @johnfry9010 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Juan Browne of the Blalcolario channel did a tour of this aircraft just before fire season , it's a must see , on youtube . Beautiful video , thanks for posting it .

  • @kpdvw
    @kpdvw 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Grert flying in "Terrain" with such a BIG BIRD! The camera on the Helo has super lenses, great video! You all stay safe!

  • @JoeSmith-zg7in
    @JoeSmith-zg7in 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    That is the finest aircraft ever designed,it's just as beautifull now as the first day it flew.just a wonderfull plane.

  • @charlotteruse158
    @charlotteruse158 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    My God, mad skills to maneuver that monster in that terrain. Like a big graceful bird. What a rush! It's beautiful to watch. Hearing the sound of the engines would have made this perfect.

    • @wcolby
      @wcolby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Unfortunately the helicopter needs to stay about three miles from the 747, so you can't hear the 747 over the noise of the helicopter.

  • @gracelandone
    @gracelandone 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I kept catching myself holding my breath. Beautiful bird and beautiful flying.

  • @nk7155
    @nk7155 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Beautiful watching this bird fly. This has to the best closeup video of a 747 in random flight.
    And of course, the camera man was exceptional!

  • @stan4097
    @stan4097 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Never have I seen a 747 been made to look so small. Looks like the size of a Cessna in some shots. Awesome footage.

  • @richardthompson420
    @richardthompson420 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

    Flying a 747 low and slow. Balls. Takes balls.

  • @BestEachDay
    @BestEachDay 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    If America would get its act together, our future would be full of more beautiful and timeless things like the ever awe inspiring Boeing 747. Let's do that!

  • @laxmannate07
    @laxmannate07 4 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    It drops minced fire extinguishers. That’s why the mist is red.

  • @happilyham6769
    @happilyham6769 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    The Boeing 747 Global Super Tanker in action is one of the sexiest Goddamn things I have ever seen in my entire life.

  • @lindabriggs5118
    @lindabriggs5118 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I realize this video is a few years old. But HOLY MOLY! Wow, what a beast, and those pilots have nerves of titanium!

  • @MrPhotodoc
    @MrPhotodoc 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Bless the pilot and the crew. Amen.

  • @vintagegirl1961
    @vintagegirl1961 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Queen of the skies! The 747. The best!

  • @laurieannrogan1317
    @laurieannrogan1317 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    How on Earth can anyone give this a thumbs down? Obviously they're Airbus fans . The 747 is just a masterpiece design. I must say I also like the A380. What an absolute beauty she is.

    • @wcolby
      @wcolby  4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Laurieann Rogan •
      don't let haters make you sad... Most people that hit the thumb down are....
      1) people that don't understand aerial firefighting and think the tanker missed.
      2) people that think "we don't like forest fires" so thumbs down...
      3) People that don't like the natural sound.
      4) Airbus Employees
      5) Please don't forget to like & subscribe.

  • @robertl.fallin7062
    @robertl.fallin7062 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Queen of the sky's after all these years!