About

About Us

Precision. Passion. Performance.

Based in Missoula, Montana, Neptune Aviation has been a leader in aerial firefighting since 1993, when founder Marta Timmons acquired our first P2V and started providing aerial firefighting services to the U.S. Forest Service. From day one, our mission has been simple: assemble an elite team to raise the safety bar in aerial firefighting. Today, we protect lives and property from wildfires worldwide by combining rigorous operational excellence with close agency collaboration.

Beyond the fire line, Neptune is a premier, full-service aviation company serving national and international customers. We leverage our deep expertise to provide comprehensive, in-house solutions including:

  • MRO Services: Advanced aircraft maintenance, avionics, and non-destructive testing.
  • FBO & Fleet Management: Premium ground services via Northstar Jet, plus aircraft management, inspections, and certifications.
  • Pilot Training: In-house pilot recruitment and preparation using a state-of-the-art flight simulator.

Our Culture

Culture of safety

Neptune’s top priority is the safety of our team and the communities that we serve. We mitigate risk by developing a rigorous safety culture focused on delivering predictable results:

  • 99% Dispatch Availability: Ensuring maximum readiness during time-sensitive agency callouts.
  • Advanced Simulation: Continuous pilot preparation that includes training on our proprietary, state-of-the-art flight simulator to master aerial firefighting tactics.
  • Proven Track Record: Decades of high-risk operational hours managed under strict, proactive risk-mitigation frameworks. 

What Guides Us

Our purpose is to support people and aircraft with safety, skill, and genuine care. We are building an aviation operation known for professional service, trusted relationships, and people who take responsibility for getting the details right.

Embracing
Family

We support our customers, partners, and coworkers by treating every relationship with care and respect.

Firm
Handshake

We communicate clearly, honor our commitments, and take responsibility for the work entrusted to us.

Resilient
Spirit

We meet challenges with sound judgment, practical solutions, and the determination to keep moving forward.

Safety in
Every Direction

We put safety first in how we prepare, communicate, make decisions, and perform our work.