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Macon‑Bibb leaders unveil new Rosenbauer Panther ARFF at airport push‑in ceremony
Summary
Macon‑Bibb County officials and fire department leaders on Tuesday dedicated a new Rosenbauer Panther 4x4 ARFF firefighting vehicle at Station 4, saying the automated truck replaces a 1994 Titan and enhances response capability as the airport expands.
Chief Edwards welcomed a crowd at Station 4 on Tuesday to mark the delivery of a new Rosenbauer Panther 4x4 aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) vehicle for the Macon‑Bibb County Airport.
The vehicle, which replaces a 1994 Titan ARFF apparatus, is computer‑automated and — officials said — will let firefighters operate nozzles and suppression systems more efficiently. "We actually have a brand new Rosenbauer Panther 4 by 4 ARFF apparatus," Chief Edwards said, thanking county leaders for support.
Mayor Miller framed the delivery as part of a broader effort to prepare the airport for growth and improved safety. He highlighted recent mutual‑aid wildfire deployments, new commercial destinations announced with airline Contour, an expanding fixed‑base operator (FBO) investment and an ongoing runway extension. "It's a great day to be in Macon Bibb County," Mayor Miller said, adding that the upgrades will allow the airport to accommodate larger aircraft.
Commissioner Bill Howell, who represents the district that includes the airport, said the truck is especially important to pilots. "If you declare an emergency ... that's the most important piece of equipment that you wanna see," Howell said, noting the vehicle’s foam‑deployment capability and high visibility.
An airport official described the apparatus as a strategic investment that "enhances our response capabilities" and improves operational readiness, allowing the airport to support a higher index of aircraft and associated business activity.
Chief Edwards explained the contrast between the outgoing 1994 Titan — whose controls are largely manual — and the new, automated Rosenbauer Panther, saying automation should speed response and reduce crew workload. He also noted the department’s work to secure ARFF certifications and to satisfy FAA audit requirements.
The ceremony included a traditional 'push‑in' for the new apparatus and a dedication prayer led by Lavonia Franklin, a retired firefighter serving as the department chaplain. "We dedicate this truck and ask for your blessings upon it and may it be a vessel of safety," Franklin said.
Officials did not disclose the purchase price at the ceremony. County leaders and fire department staff said the investment is intended to improve safety for travelers and personnel and to support anticipated airport growth. The push‑in ceremony concluded with department members physically moving the truck into its station bay as a ceremonial welcome.
