Airview Fire Recon Preparing for a Potentially Busy 2026 Queensland Bushfire Season

Queensland, Australia – July 2026 – As forecasts point towards an earlier, hotter and drier bushfire season across eastern Australia, the Airview Fire Recon (AFR) team has entered its annual pre-season readiness program, ensuring every aspect of its aerial Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capability is ready to support the Queensland Fire Department throughout the 2026 fire season.

With a developing El Niño expected to increase bushfire risk across much of Queensland, AFR has commenced an intensive schedule of technology testing, equipment maintenance, software development and operational training ahead of aircraft preparation and flight testing in mid-August.

The pre-season program includes comprehensive bench testing of mission-critical hardware, integration of new software capabilities, refinement of intelligence workflows, data processing enhancements, fleet vehicle servicing, equipment maintenance and ongoing crew training.

Operations Manager and Head of Engineering Josh Brookes Allen said the seasonal outlook prompted the team to begin preparations early.

"There are clear indicators we may see an earlier and drier season this year, so we are very busy ensuring we can cover every eventuality for our Queensland client."

Alongside technical development, AFR continues to invest heavily in the professional development of its operational crews, ensuring they remain proficient with the latest technology and intelligence systems.

Chief Training Officer Tami Tacklind said maintaining a highly skilled team is essential as AFR continues to evolve its capability.

"As usual our development path is aggressive so training needs to be a priority. Ensuring our team can deliver the best ISR outcomes for Queensland Fire is our whole focus."

Aircraft preparation and operational flight testing will commence in mid-August before the team enters full operational readiness for the 2026 bushfire season.

Every enhancement made during the off-season is designed with one objective in mind—to provide the Queensland Fire Department with fast, accurate and reliable aerial intelligence that supports informed decision-making during rapidly evolving wildfire incidents.

As Queensland prepares for what could be another challenging fire season, the AFR team stands ready to help protect lives, property and the environment through world-class aerial intelligence and operational excellence.