Theoretical solution for a logistic problem: how to raise the effectiveness of aerial water transport

Abstract

Introduction: As well-known, aerial firefighting is an effective solution suppressing forest fire, however there is no doubt, this tool in many cases can be the only one effective solution, even if it is very expensive. Following the above idea, any new method that is able to reduce the cost of aerial means supporting forest fire management, is worth examining as a new aerial solution. Methods: This article used practical experiments of the aerial firefighting, created a graphics model to understand the logistic problem, made assumptions to concentrate on the key problems and with mathematical backgrounds some logistic functions meaning distance and capacity axes. Results and discussion: The effectiveness of air tankers depends on the distance between the fire zone and water resource. The shorter the distance is between them, the higher the effectiveness is using aerials. This relation can be shown even at a function; however the change is not linear. The rate of the curve depends on the distance, larger distance means smaller change and vice versa, shorter distance means bigger scale of change. This result gives the tipping point where the higher costs of suggested solution – aerial water supply system - will be balanced by the higher amount of bombed water.