July 23, 2005 - The Beriev multipurpose amphibian BE-200ES continues its operation in Italy within the framework of the leasing contract between Beriev Aircraft Corp. and La SOREM S.R.L., the official authorized firefighting service operator assigned by the Civil Protection Department (Protezione Civile) of Italy. The familiarization flights program of the BE-200ES included inspection of lakes to determine whether they might be used for water scooping. The program was completed July 17, 2005, and the Beriev amphibian was put on assignment by the order of the Civil Protection Department of Italy after coordination with Italian aviation authorities.

July 20, 2005 the BE-200ES participated in extinguishing two fires. The site where the first fire started was in the Southern part of Sardinia Island in a remote mountainous region difficult to access. By the time the Russian amphibian arrived, two firefighting helicopters of the Sardinia Fire Department were on the spot, but their use was complicated due to a strong side wind. The Beriev BE-200ES extinguished the fire with three drops of fire suppressant during the operation.



The second fire was located in the outskirts of the city of Olbia on Sardinia Island. The site where the fire started was in a resort area in the proximity of houses and parking lots. Two Canadair CL-415 planes participated in the operation along with the BE-200. The Beriev BE-200ES made 17 drops of fire suppressant, isolating the fire and bringing it under control. After that ground services were engaged in liquidation of fire consequences.

Representatives of the Italian fire department observed the firefighting operation from the ground and confirmed the high efficiency of the Beriev Aircraft Company amphibious aircraft.