I am just watching this discussion unfold over and AMI:
http://www.aussiemodeller.com.au/forum/ ... =6&t=11393
.....and to my absolute astonishment the resident self-proclaimed "expert" apparently STILL doesn't get it where LATs/VLATs in Australia are concerned. He constantly reminds everyone what an expert and experienced specialist he is in the field of Airborne/Aviation fire-fighting (and clearly remains a firm detractor and critic of LATs), yet he seems oblivious and completely ignorant to the fact that he is now routinely surrounded by LATs/VLATs doing some excellent work in this country. Your argument is well and truly lost good Sir, and you now very much represent a minority view on this issue.
You might want to ask those who have directly benefited from the local LAT/VLAT presence, (including the CFA), if they agree with you.
TOR
PS: A CL-415 is NOT a Flying Boat and constantly demonstrates it's absolute fire-fighting versatility and adapatability in most other fire-prone countries around the world year in and year out.
Footnote: it would appear certain posts have just now been deleted from the AMI thread in question, (perhaps the individual realised the basic folly and silliness of his argument) ....but just to give some context..... there was unfounded and really quiet ridiculous criticism of the CL-415 being used in Australian conditions, (effectively, the same old arguments).