What type of stream is recommended for handling most aircraft fire situations?

A coarse heavy stream is recommended for handling most aircraft fire situations because it delivers a large volume of water over a wide area, providing effective cooling and smothering of flames. In aircraft incidents, especially those involving fuel fires, it is crucial to suppress the fire quickly and efficiently to prevent its spread and protect both personnel and equipment.

The impact of a coarse heavy stream creates a more significant thermal barrier between the fire and any potential victims or responders, allowing for safer evacuation and firefighting efforts. Additionally, this type of stream helps to quickly extinguish large fires, which is often necessary given the volatile nature of aircraft fuel.

Other streams may not provide the same level of effectiveness. For instance, a concentrated spray or straight stream can be beneficial in specific scenarios where precision must be prioritized, but they may not displace enough heat or cover the fire area adequately during a major incident. Meanwhile, a fog stream can be useful for cooling and creating a steam barrier but may not provide the same immediate extinguishment power as a coarse heavy stream in large aircraft fires. Thus, the coarse heavy stream is considered the best overall choice for effectively managing most aircraft fire situations.