LAKELAND, Fla. – Starting this week, the Lakeland Fire Department has officially shifted its airport safety operations into a higher gear. As of February 11, 2026, the department’s Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting unit, known as ARFF-2, is now permanently staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
While the specialized ARFF-2 vehicle has been a staple at Lakeland Linder International Airport for years, it previously didn’t have a dedicated team assigned to it at all hours.
This change isn’t about buying new trucks; it’s about putting boots on the ground. By keeping a full crew on standby around the clock, the department is boosting its ability to jump into action during an aircraft emergency while ensuring the airport stays on solid footing for years to come…