What is the term for those ladders that are permanently mounted and operated from a piece of fire apparatus?

Aerial ladders are specifically designed for firefighting operations and are mounted on fire apparatus to provide elevated access during emergencies. These ladders typically have the capability to reach significant heights and can be maneuvered to various angles, enabling firefighters to access higher floors, rooftops, or conduct rescues from elevated positions. They offer stability and a platform from which firefighters can operate effectively.

In contrast, extension ladders are portable and rely on manual extension to achieve height, and they are not mounted on vehicles. Bangor ladders, while also a type of portable ladder, are primarily used for specific applications such as railway or tall structure access rather than being a permanent feature on fire apparatus. Rescue ladders are more general-purpose ladders that can be used in various non-mounted situations, such as for rescue operations, but they do not have the specialized features and capabilities associated with aerial ladders. Therefore, the term specifically relates to those ladders that are integral to fire apparatus and designed for operational efficiency in firefighting contexts, making aerial ladders the correct choice.