As wildfires continue to ravage Canada, the United States, and Europe, the pressure is mounting on the manufacturer of the Canadair “Super Scooper” water bombers to ramp up production. Calgary-based De Havilland, now in charge of the Canadair program after acquiring it from Bombardier, is resurrecting production of these renowned aircraft. The majority of the assembly takes place in Calgary, utilizing a nationwide supply chain.
The revival of the production line, announced in 2022, is progressing well, with the first two aircraft scheduled for completion and delivery in early 2028. Demand for these amphibious firefighting planes is high, with Canadian premiers and European leaders eager to bolster their firefighting capabilities.
Originally designed in the 1960s for battling wildfires in the Canadian wilderness, the Canadair aircraft stand out for their ability to maneuver through narrow canyons at low altitudes and swiftly collect water from lakes, rivers, and oceans. They are purpose-built firefighting aircraft, unlike other modified planes and helicopters used for water-carrying operations.
Recent criticism from opposition politicians in France and Spain, as well as provincial leaders like Manitoba’s Wab Kinew, underscores the urgent need for more operational Canadair planes to tackle wildfires effectively. De Havilland acknowledges the pressure and the crucial role these aircraft play in global firefighting efforts.
Considering the overwhelming demand, De Havilland is contemplating the expansion of production lines to keep up with the orders. The company is working with provincial and federal authorities to secure a substantial order that would facilitate the construction of a second production line, potentially doubling the annual output of water bombers.
With existing orders for 38 water bombers, De Havilland faces delivery timelines extending to 2032-2033 due to the intricate manufacturing process requiring thousands of parts, mostly sourced from Canadian suppliers. The escalating demand for Canadair planes globally, driven by worsening wildfire situations, highlights the critical need for enhanced firefighting capabilities.
To prevent potential competition from foreign manufacturers entering the market, De Havilland must rise to the challenge of meeting the soaring demand for water bombers. Failure to do so could jeopardize Canadian manufacturing jobs and the country’s position as a leader in firefighting aircraft technology.
As calls grow for a national fleet of modern firefighting aircraft, the federal government’s recent lease of additional planes and helicopters underscores the importance of bolstering firefighting resources. While aircraft play a vital role in wildfire response by aiding ground crews and creating perimeters, they are just one component of a comprehensive firefighting strategy that includes prevention and mitigation efforts.
The commitment to enhancing wildfire response capabilities is evident as authorities collaborate at national and provincial levels to address the escalating impacts of wildfires. The need for effective firefighting equipment like Canadair water bombers remains paramount in safeguarding communities and natural environments from the growing threat of wildfires.