What is the role of foam in aircraft firefighting?

Foam plays a vital role in aircraft firefighting primarily by extinguishing fires and preventing re-ignition. When foam is applied to a fire, it forms a blanket over the burning material, which both smothers the flames and limits the oxygen supply that fuels the fire. This is crucial in aviation incidents, where fuel types can include aviation gasoline and other flammable materials that can ignite quickly and spread.

Additionally, the foam creates a barrier that cools the fire while preventing flammable vapors from escaping, further reducing the risk of re-ignition once the flames are out. The effectiveness of foam in fighting fires, especially those involving fuel, is why it is commonly used in airport firefighting operations. This capability is essential for minimizing the impact of an incident on both human lives and property.