11 November 2024
Can you fit a quart* into a pint pot? If you’re Game Composites, makers of the all-composite aerobatic aircraft Gamebird, you’re at least going to try.
Game Composites has revealed it is working on a one or two seat, all-composite, single engine aerial firefighter capable of delivering up to 1,200 gallons of fire retardant to a precise point, such as the early stages of a wild fire.
1,200 gallons! Admittedly that’s smaller US gallons (0.83 to a proper imperial gallon) but still, that’s an incredible amount and would represent a useful load more than double its empty weight.
As a comparison, a Bombardier Canadair CL-415 ‘Superscooper’ can load up to 1,535 US gallons – and that starts with an empty weight of 30,000 pounds and has a max weight of 43,850 pounds. And it’s powered by two turboprop engines.
This is the world’s top firefighting aircraft in action: the Canadair CL-415 Superscooper. Photo: Maarten Visser
The Game Composites statement says the firefighting aircraft is called GB2 Stormbird, and has a projected empty weight of 6,000 pounds and make takeoff weight of 19,000 pounds. And it can exceed 200 knots at max speed.
The incredible strength of the Stormbird is down to the use of composite materials which not only resist corrosion but also allows for aerodynamic shaping, enhancing performance and durability. Its two-seat, tandem configuration accommodates an observer or second crew member, providing operational flexibility.
Flight testing for the GB2 prototype is scheduled to start in late 2025, with first deliveries planned for 2026 and full FAA type certification expected by 2027.
Game Composites, headquartered in Bentonville, Arkansas, has been producing the GB1 Gamebird aerobatic aircraft since 2017. Philipp Steinbach, known for his expertise in high-performance composite aircraft, designed both the GB1 and GB2. Game Composites is owned by Steuart Walton, pilot and part of the family that founded Walmart.
*Two pints
