Statesville Fire Department Enhances Emergency Response at Airport with Upgraded ARFF Truck

Last Updated 1/30/2026 • Posted in Fire News

STATESVILLE, NC – The Statesville Fire Department (SFD) is proud to announce a major upgrade to its Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) capabilities, thanks to a collaborative effort between the department, the Statesville Regional Airport, city administration, and the Statesville City Council.

Through this partnership, the Fire Department has acquired a refurbished 2006 E-One ARFF truck, significantly enhancing its ability to respond to aviation-related emergencies. The new apparatus features a 1,500-gallon water tank, a 200-gallon foam tank, and a 450-pound dry chemical system, offering substantial improvements over the department’s previous 2003 ARFF unit, which is no longer serviceable due to mechanical issues.

“This upgraded ARFF truck is a game-changer for our department,” said Fire Chief Glenn Kurfees. “It provides increased capacity and advanced technology that directly support our mission to protect lives and property, especially in aviation emergencies.”

The investment in a refurbished model allowed the department to obtain a high-quality, mission-ready vehicle while being fiscally responsible. The purchase demonstrates the City’s ongoing commitment to public safety and responsible budgeting.

The ARFF truck is now in service at the Statesville Regional Airport following in-house training with SFD personnel. While the vehicle is not staffed full-time, the department has implemented an operational plan to deploy the truck efficiently. In the event of an aviation emergency, the first arriving fire unit will assign personnel to operate the ARFF truck.

“This is a strategic deployment model that ensures rapid response and readiness without the need for full-time staffing,” added Chief Kurfees. “It’s another example of how we continue to adapt and evolve our services to meet the needs of the community.”

The ARFF truck will make its public debut at the Arbor Day Celebration on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the Statesville Soccer Complex during the Touch a Truck event, which will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The community is invited to come out, get an up-close look at this impressive vehicle, and even climb inside to explore its features.

“We’re excited to showcase this vital piece of equipment to the public,” said Chief Kurfees. “It’s a great opportunity for families and residents to see firsthand how we’re working to keep our airport and community safe.”