JH Airport Receives and Transitions to Fluorine-Free Firefighting Foam

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 26, 2023

JAC Receives and Transitions to Fluorine-Free Firefighting Foam

Jackson Hole Airport (Airport) has become one of the first airports in the United States to transition to fluorine-free firefighting foam (F3). This continues a longstanding effort by the Airport to address aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) containing per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to fight fuel-based aircraft fires.

As background, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) historically required commercial service airports to use PFAS-containing AFFF. In response to a Congressional mandate, the Department of Defense (DOD) and FAA have been evaluating F3 agents that would provide the same level of firefighting capabilities. In September 2023, the DOD certified the first F3 firefighting extinguishing agent liquid concentrate to meet the requirements of a new performance specification (MIL-PRF-32725).

Once this product was approved for use, the Airport immediately initiated plans for its purchase. Upon delivery yesterday, the Airport replaced PFAS-containing AFFF with F3 in its existing fleet of aircraft firefighting vehicles. The Airport also continues to use the FAA-approved foam testing system that can measure the mixture of water to foam as required to meet FAA requirements without needing to discharge any extinguishing agent. Further, the Airport has purchased two new firefighting vehicles that are anticipated to be delivered in 2024. Once delivered, these vehicles will be filled only with F3.

“The Airport is very pleased to have the F3 on-site and to have this new firefighting agent in our firetrucks. This is a huge step forward for our airport and the aviation industry. The Airport will continue working to monitor and mitigate PFAS at the Airport. With the FAA replacement product in-hand, JAC is excited to be one of the first airports in the United States using the new foam.,” stated Board President, Ed Liebzeit.

The successful transition to F3 was the result of careful planning and rooted in a firm commitment to safety and environmental protection. The Airport coordinated with leading resources throughout the industry and moved as quickly and deliberately as any airport of any size in the country. The Airport remains committed to the safety and health of our passengers, staff, and surrounding community.

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