Dubai to give firefighters jetpacks

Dubai Civil Defence has placed an order with Martin Aircraft Company for 20 twin-engine jetpacks and simulators

In order to ensure security of firefighters, Dubai Civil Defence has announced it will equip them with jetpacks.

The Dubai Civil Defence has officially placed an order with Martin Aircraft Company for 20 of its twin-engine jetpacks and two simulators for training purposes.



The city is no stranger to high-flying exploits and its newest venture is hoped to ensure security of firefighters and their equipment.

Regarding the order, Martin Aircraft company said the jetpack is similar to what the stunt pilot in the film The Rocketeer had strapped to his back. The real-life version is considerably larger than the science-fiction jetpack, and comes with a hefty $35,000 price tag. The company revels that it can carry over 260 pounds, allowing it to lift a pilot and additional equipment otherwise difficult to reach parts of a skyscraper which makes it perfect to use in an emergency enabling fire fighters to be able to quickly access the upper floors of a building.



The question of whether the jetpack is a viable solution to the problems involved with battling high-rise fires and emergencies is yet to be seen as Dubai boasts to be one of the first cities to trial this unique approach. The initiative reflects on the dedication of the city’s efforts to help make the booming metropolis’ skyline safer by tackling rescue problems associated with skyscrapers.

This article originally appeared in Gizmodo.