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Economy
04 November, 2025 / 17:10
/ 6 hours ago

VIDEO // Chisinau International Airport enhances safety level with acquisition of unique intervention vehicle

The safety of passengers and flights at Chisinau International Airport is strengthened by a new major investment. Chisinau International Airport has acquired a special emergency and fire intervention vehicle – PANTHER 6x6 S, unique in the Republic of Moldova.

The vehicle was manufactured in Austria by Rosenbauer International AG, one of the world leaders in equipment for firefighting and airport interventions. The PANTHER 6x6 S model is designed for rapid and efficient interventions in case of aviation incidents, ensuring the protection of human lives and airport infrastructure.

"Equipped with a powerful 700 HP engine and weighing over 33 tons, the vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 80 km/h in just 25 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 125 km/h - performances that exceed international standards in civil aviation. The state-of-the-art extinguishing system allows a flow rate of 7,500 liters/minute, using water, foam, and powder, giving it remarkable intervention capability in critical situations. The vehicle can transport 9,480 liters of water, 1,350 liters of foam, and 250 kg of powder, and the two water cannons can cover distances of up to 110 and 70 meters, even while moving, forming a 'water corridor' to protect passengers during evacuation," explains the airport authority.

According to the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), airports are classified into 10 safety categories, with category 10 being the highest. Currently, Chisinau International Airport is classified in category 7, but the new PANTHER 6x6 S vehicle allows, if necessary, to raise the protection level to category 9, significantly enhancing the safety of air operations.

"We continue to invest in modern equipment and technologies that increase the comfort and safety of our passengers. Through this acquisition, we align with European practices and standards in aviation safety, confirming our commitment to offer passengers the highest conditions of security and comfort," the Airport representatives summarized.