Canada, the United States, and Europe are currently facing severe wildfire seasons, leading to mounting pressure on the manufacturer of the Canadair “Super Scooper” water bombers to boost production. Calgary-based De Havilland, which recently acquired the program from Bombardier, has decided to restart Canadair production to meet the escalating demand. The handcrafted aircraft are predominantly assembled in Calgary using parts from various locations across Canada. The production, relaunched in 2022, is progressing well with the first two planes expected to be finished and delivered by early 2028.
The Canadair water bombers, known for their firefighting efficiency, were initially designed in the 1960s to combat wildfires in the vast Canadian wilderness. Unlike other firefighting aircraft that are adaptations, the Canadair is purpose-built for the task. The newest Super Scooper model retains the classic features of its predecessors, including a 30-meter wingspan, a 6,100-liter water tank, and the iconic yellow and red exterior.
Political figures in France, Spain, and Canadian provinces have voiced concerns over the inadequate availability of operational Canadair aircraft, affecting their ability to combat wildfires effectively. The high demand for these water bombers has prompted calls for increased production. De Havilland is contemplating establishing a second production line to meet the soaring requests, with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith advocating for a substantial order from the federal government to ensure production continuity.
Industry experts, like John Gradek from McGill University, emphasize the urgent need for expanding Canadair production to address the global demand for firefighting aircraft. The current wait time for new orders is projected to be between 2032 and 2033, highlighting the pressing need for additional manufacturing capacity. Failure to meet the rising demand may lead to foreign competitors developing alternative firefighting aircraft, posing a potential threat to Canadian manufacturing jobs.
The Canadian government has been urged to consider establishing a national fleet of modern firefighting aircraft, as recommended in a recent Senate report. While aircraft play a vital role in fire management by aiding ground crews and containing wildfires, they are just one part of a comprehensive firefighting strategy that also includes prevention and mitigation efforts. The federal government is committed to enhancing the country’s wildfire response capabilities, collaborating closely with provincial and territorial authorities to address the escalating challenges posed by wildfires.
