As wildfire crises continue to plague Canada, the United States, and Europe, there is mounting pressure on the manufacturer of the Canadair “Super Scooper” water bombers to ramp up production. Calgary-based De Havilland has taken the unusual step of resuming Canadair production after acquiring the program from Bombardier in 2015.
These renowned aircraft are meticulously hand-built in Calgary, with components sourced from across Canada. The revival of the production line, initiated in 2022, is yielding results as the first two aircraft are progressing on schedule for completion and delivery by early 2028.
Amidst current shortages and aging fleets, Canadian premiers and European leaders are eager to secure these aircraft. The Canadair, originating in the 1960s, was specifically designed as an amphibious firefighting plane for combating large wildfires in the Canadian wilderness. Its unique capabilities include skimming water from bodies of water swiftly and efficiently.
The latest iteration of the Super Scooper maintains the traditional design features of past Canadair models, featuring high wings spanning 30 meters, a 6,100-liter water tank, and the iconic yellow and red exterior.
In response to the growing demand, De Havilland is contemplating the establishment of a second production line while continuing to produce the initial aircraft at existing facilities. The company is collaborating with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and other officials to facilitate a substantial order from Ottawa, which would provide the necessary assurance to commence the construction of a second line.
De Havilland’s current production capacity allows for the manufacture of approximately 10 water bombers annually, with plans to double output to 20 per year with a second assembly line. With existing orders for 38 water bombers, new orders are estimated for delivery between 2032 and 2033.
Recognizing the urgency for additional Canadairs, aviation expert John Gradek emphasizes the global demand for these firefighting aircraft due to the escalating wildfire risks exacerbated by climate change. Failure to address this demand could lead to potential competition from foreign manufacturers, posing a threat to Canadian manufacturing jobs.
The Senate’s recent report on wildfires in Canada recommends establishing a national fleet of modern firefighting aircraft. While the federal government has leased aircraft to assist provincial wildfire crews this summer, there remains a high demand for firefighting resources. The federal government is committed to strengthening national capacity to combat increasingly severe wildfire seasons.
The ongoing challenges posed by wildfires emphasize the importance of a multi-faceted approach to firefighting, with aerial units serving as a vital tool in conjunction with ground operations. While aircraft play a crucial role in fire management, prevention and mitigation efforts are equally essential in addressing the wildfire threat effectively.
