Celebratory Push-In Ceremony for New Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting Vehicle

The Reno Fire Department (RFD), in partnership with the Reno Tahoe Airport Authority (RTAA), will unveil a new state-of-the-art Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting vehicle (ARFF) at 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at RFD Station 15, located at 1805 Riley Ave.

The new Rosenbauer Panther ARFF Class 4 vehicle will replace a 20-year-old 2004 Titan HPR vehicle that has reached the recommended end of its service life, according to nationally recognized standards. The new vehicle will feature next-generation technology designed to help firefighters operating in high-risk environments while enhancing the safety of aircraft passengers and emergency personnel during incidents in and around aircraft.

"This new apparatus will enhance the Reno Fire Department's emergency response capabilities at the Reno-Tahoe International Airport," said Ward 6 Councilmember Brandi Anderson. "Public safety is our top priority, and as the airport continues to expand, it's absolutely critical that our firefighters have the tools they need to respond effectively and efficiently."

"While we're prepared to respond to emergencies today, maintaining that readiness requires ongoing investment and strong partnerships like our collaboration with the City of Reno Fire Department," said Cris Jensen, Interim President/CEO of the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority. "This vehicle strengthens our ability to respond quickly and effectively on airport property, helping protect travelers, employees, and first responders, and potentially saving lives. We're grateful to our congressional delegation for securing federal funding that covered nearly the entire cost and made this critical investment possible."

The ARFF was made possible through a $911,140 Federal Aviation Administration grant secured by Senators Catherine Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen, and Congressman Mark Amodei. This grant was awarded to the RTAA prior to the transfer of fire services to the RFD. In addition, the RTAA contributed nearly $214,000 in funds for the new ARFF.

"When a fire starts, a quick, effective response can save countless lives and prevent tragedy," said Senator Cortez Masto. "To keep travelers safe, firefighters need the newest and most efficient technology. I am proud to have secured funding for this vital fire response and rescue vehicle for the Reno-Tahoe International Airport and City of Reno Fire, and I will continue to work with my state and local partners to ensure they have the tools they need to keep families throughout the Silver State safe."

"Reno-Tahoe International Airport is the beating heart of Northern Nevada's travel and tourism economy, which is why I've made it a priority to work across party lines to deliver the resources it needs," said Senator Rosen. "I am so proud to announce yet another new investment in the safety of the airport, its passengers, and its infrastructure with the arrival of a brand-new Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting vehicle. This vehicle will help maintain Reno-Tahoe Airport's incredible safety record and improve passenger experience."

Quick Facts on the New ARFF:

• Weighs approximately 57,000 pounds
• Carries 1,600 gallons of water, 210 gallons of PFAS-free foam concentrate, and 500 pounds of dry chemical extinguishing agent
• Features a 700-hoursepower engine and all-wheel drive
• Accelerates from zero to 50 miles per hour in 22 seconds while carrying three firefighters and full fire response materials and equipment

About Reno Fire Station 15:

Through an Interlocal Agreement (ILA), the City of Reno assumed fire protection responsibilities from the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority (RTAA), including Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) and the airport fire station. Station 15 firefighters respond to aircraft incidents and other emergencies on airport property. Emergencies can include medical calls, vehicle accidents, pedestrian falls, and other situations that need immediate attention. These firefighters ensure the safety of passengers that arrive and depart on 140 daily flights at the Reno-Tahoe International Airport. All costs are fully reimbursed by the RTAA.