RAAF Flies Through Blood-Red Skies with Near-Zero Visibility in Victoria

A video released by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) on Monday, January 6, shows just how challenging conditions are for pilots conducting operations in areas affected by Australia’s record-breaking bushfires.

The video, comprising two clips shot in Mallacoota, Victoria, and Merimbula, New South Wales, respectively, shows thick smoke and red and orange skies almost completely obscuring views from the cockpit.

“They’re very challenging and dynamic conditions out there,” said the RAAF in a Facebook post. “Even though our crews are highly trained and professional, heavy smoke from bushfires means they’re not always able to complete the mission on the first try.”

The New South Wales Rural Fire Service said that 136 fires were burning across the state on Monday morning, with 69 uncontained. Thirteen “watch and act” bushfire warnings were in place in Victoria. Credit: Royal Australian Air Force via Storyful