Mike Sparrow, Airport Manger at London Oxford Airport, this week signed a purchase agreement for a new state of the art fire tender with Seville based ITURRI Group. The fire engine is the next generation in the ITURRI family of fire tenders and will be the first of its kind to be delivered to an airport in the UK.

London Oxford Airport chose to invest around £500,000 as part of a continuing strategy to upgrade its fire services. “Our existing fleet is aging and does not reflect the modern facilities of the airport,” said Mike Sparrow. “ITURRI was willing to work to our specifications and listen to our unique requirement, that’s why we chose them. Our ultimate goal is to bring three new engines to our fleet within the next five years as part of our continuing commitment to improve Oxford Airport’s safety services.”

The new vehicle, which will be delivered to Oxford Airport in Spring 2011, includes a number of specific solutions for the airport market including a lower centre of gravity to improve vehicle stability; increased power from a 6×6 chassis which also includes off road capability; and a slightly lighter body made of a recyclable composite known as EcoPolyFire, which allows for greater water carriage and improved acceleration. For the crew a new cab design offers improved space, visibility and safety.

A unique factor specific to the UK market, is the inclusion of an external monitor platform which sits just behind the cab. This provides the operator an external space from which to fully view an emergency situation and from which important safety information can be passed to the rest of the crew.