MZ12 FiFi by AISTER: Firefighting and rescue vessel for airports and coastal operations
A new generation of SAR-FiFi vessels for airports and coastal zones, featuring technological upgrades in safety and operational efficiency
The MZ12 FiFi is a state-of-the-art rescue and firefighting vessel built by AISTER, specifically designed for operations at airports with runways close to the sea and for coastal environments. This model is an enhanced evolution of the previously introduced MZ12 SAR with FiFi configuration, now featuring new technologies that boost its effectiveness in maritime emergency response.
Among the main differences from earlier versions, the new MZ12 FiFi includes a remotely controlled forward firefighting monitor and an innovative system for deploying life rafts for rescued persons, mounted on folding davits for easier and faster deployment. It is also powered by twin Mercury SeaPro 250 HP outboard engines, offering greater robustness and efficiency for high-intensity operations.
Technical specifications
The engineering behind the MZ12 FiFi: Power, speed, and safety
The MZ12 FiFi is fully constructed in marine-grade aluminium, providing light weight, corrosion resistance, and exceptional durability even in demanding marine environments. Thanks to its reinforced hull, the vessel can withstand impacts while maintaining solid and secure performance in adverse conditions.
Its design is optimised for manoeuvring in ports, coastal waters, marshes, and rocky areas—places where precision and responsiveness are vital.
With twin 250 HP Mercury SeaPro engines, the MZ12 FiFi can reach top speeds of 32 knots, ensuring rapid deployment to emergency locations. These engines also offer lower fuel consumption, reliable performance during intensive use, and reduced maintenance, ideal for professional fleets.
Professional equipment for maritime emergencies
The vessel is equipped with a complete firefighting system, including a high-capacity water pump delivering up to 4,000 litres per minute (240 m³/h), installed below deck to keep the stern area clear for operations. It features two firefighting monitors: a manually operated one at the stern and a remotely controlled one at the bow, which can be precisely operated from the main console. This setup allows safe and flexible firefighting in coastal zones, onboard vessels, or at port infrastructure—making it equally suitable for responding to aircraft accidents at sea.
For rescue operations, the vessel is fitted with three life rafts: one for the crew and two for rescued passengers. The latter are mounted on folding davits, allowing quick deployment in emergency situations.
The wheelhouse offers full 360º visibility, significantly enhancing crew safety and control during complex operations, especially in low-visibility conditions or when approaching hazardous areas.
Rapid and reliable emergency response
The MZ12 FiFi is designed to perform dual roles as a SAR (Search and Rescue) and firefighting vessel, particularly in airport and coastal settings. It is built to respond to maritime aircraft incidents, fires aboard vessels or in port facilities, and rescue operations under extreme conditions.
Its compact size and high manoeuvrability allow it to access areas where larger vessels cannot operate, while its top speed ensures rapid reaction to any emergency.
A new standard in rescue and fire response
This new model represents a significant step forward in maritime safety, particularly at coastal airports where both aviation and marine risks converge. The MZ12 FiFi meets this challenge with a versatile platform capable of managing both firefighting and mass rescue operations within a single deployment.
Its advanced technology and user-friendly systems streamline intervention times, helping save lives and reduce damage during critical incidents.
A project that strengthens our expertise
The development of the MZ12 FiFi reinforces AISTER’s commitment to innovation in professional vessels, tailored to the real needs of emergency and rescue teams. This project consolidates our extensive experience in building aluminium SAR and firefighting vessels, maintaining our position as a benchmark in the sector.
By delivering this new unit, AISTER once again demonstrates its ability to evolve and improve its designs, integrating new technological solutions and providing clients with high-value maritime products.
