What is the minimum water tank capacity required for Class III ARFF vehicles?

• A. 150 gallons
• B. 300 gallons
• C. 500 gallons
• D. 1000 gallons

Answer: (B)

The minimum water tank capacity required for Class III Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) vehicles is 300 gallons. This specification is crucial because Class III ARFF vehicles are designed to respond to fires involving larger aircraft and must have sufficient water supply to effectively combat flames and prevent fire spread.

A water tank capacity of 300 gallons ensures that these vehicles are equipped to handle typical fire scenarios encountered at airports, which can generate intense heat and require a sustained water application to extinguish. The capacity is a balance between weight considerations, maneuverability, and the operational requirements needed to protect passengers, crew, and aircraft during emergencies.

Understanding this standard helps reinforce the importance of adequate readiness in airport firefighting operations, where quick and effective response times are vital in minimizing damage and saving lives.