747 SuperTanker takes on California wildfires

A firefighting aircraft helped tackle the massive fires burning Northern California's wine country.

SEE ALSO: The science behind the fast-moving wildfires that are devastating California

Earlier this week, the 747 SuperTanker dropped fire retardant on the deadly flames north of San Francisco. The craft can hold up to about 20,000 gallons of water or retardant.

The large, modified Boeing plane operated by Global SuperTanker Services made six flights on Monday in an attempt to quell the raging inferno. As of Wednesday, the massive fires had burned 160,000 acres.

The state's fire agency contracted the aircraft this year, according to the San Bernardino Sun.

The wildfires were still barely contained Wednesday night as fire crews continue to face a tough battle with difficult weather conditions. So far the fire has killed 21 people and destroyed 3,500 homes and businesses.

Hopefully the SuperTanker can make a difference.

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