Summary:
- Dallas Love Field Airport unveils the world’s first all-electric PANTHER 6×6 aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) vehicle, advancing safety and sustainability.
- The vehicle delivers rapid acceleration, 40% longer master stream reach, and 50% noise reduction, improving emergency response efficiency and crew safety.
- The electric ARFF marks a milestone in airport firefighting, supporting DAL’s energy efficiency goals while enhancing operational resilience.
Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL) – a Headline Partner of the 20th anniversary FTE Global, 8-10 September 2026, Dallas, Texas – has advanced safety, innovation, and sustainability with the unveiling of the world’s first all-electric aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) vehicle.
As part of ongoing modernisation efforts, DAL and Dallas Fire-Rescue (DFR) have deployed the new PANTHER 6×6 electric vehicle, manufactured by Rosenbauer International, at the airport’s ARFF Station 21, enhancing both operational capability and environmental performance. DFR, which provides fire protection and emergency medical services across the city, also oversees the specialised fleet of ARFF vehicles stationed at the airport.
The new vehicle features include:
- 91,000 pounds of pure electric acceleration from 0 to 50mph in under 25 seconds, under 20 seconds in ‘Boost Mode’ – compared to 28 seconds for diesel.
- Increased master stream reach by 40%, extending from 190 feet to 250 feet, allowing crews to engage fires from a safer and more effective distance.
- Quiet electric motors delivering approximately 50% noise reduction during emergency responses compared to diesel operations.
“Improved safety and operational resilience are always top of mind at DAL,” said Patrick Carreno, Director of Aviation, Dallas Love Field. “The presence and preparedness of our partner, Dallas Fire-Rescue, are invaluable to our airport. With the addition of the electric PANTHER 6×6, we are equipping them with a unique resource that enhances life-saving capabilities while supporting our commitment to energy efficiency and carbon neutrality.”
The introduction of the electric PANTHER 6×6 establishes a new benchmark in airport firefighting – delivering high-performance response capabilities while significantly reducing environmental impact.
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