Pasco, WA —The Tri-Cities Airport (PSC) celebrated the arrival of a new Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicle with a ceremonial “push-in” event this afternoon, marking a significant investment in safety and emergency response capabilities at the airport.

The new ARFF vehicle is a third-generation Oshkosh Striker, the latest generation of specialized firefighting equipment designed specifically for aviation emergencies. The vehicle was purchased new for $1.1 million and replaces the airport’s previous frontline ARFF unit, which entered service in 2009.

The new Striker carries 1,500 gallons of water, 210 gallons of foam, and 500 pounds of dry chemical agent. It utilizes the latest fluorine-free firefighting foam (F3), aligning with evolving industry standards that reduce environmental impacts while maintaining effective firefighting performance.

“This new ARFF vehicle represents our continued commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards for our passengers, airline partners, and employees,” said Buck Taft, Director of Tri-Cities Airport. “We’re especially proud that this vehicle uses fluorine-free F3 foam instead of traditional AFFF, allowing PSC to lead the way in adopting safer, more environmentally responsible firefighting technology. As the Tri-Cities region grows and air travel continues to increase, it’s essential that our emergency response capabilities grow alongside it.”

Fire protection at the airport is provided through a partnership with the City of Pasco Fire Department. Two firefighters are dedicated to airport operations during each shift. The on-airport fire station includes an ARFF operations side dedicated to the airport and a city operations side staffed with four additional firefighters who can provide support if needed.

Today’s push-in celebration is a tradition that dates back to the early days of firefighting, when firefighters would physically push horse-drawn fire engines back into the station after a call. Today, fire departments and airport rescue teams continue the tradition as a symbolic way to welcome new equipment into service.