As wildfires ravage 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, now in charge of the program, is reviving the production of these renowned aircraft. Initially built by Bombardier until 2015, the Canadair planes are meticulously handcrafted in Calgary, with components sourced nationwide.
The reinvigorated production line, announced in 2022, is making progress, with the first two aircraft slated for completion and delivery by early 2028. With current shortages and aging fleets, Canadian premiers and European leaders are eager to acquire these essential firefighting assets.
The Canadair, designed in the 1960s for combating large wildfires in remote Canadian areas, boasts a unique ability to swiftly collect water from various sources. Unlike other modified aircraft, the Canadair is purpose-built for firefighting with features like a 6,100-liter water tank and a distinctive yellow and red exterior.
Political leaders in France, Spain, and Canada have faced criticism for inadequate operational Canadairs, impacting their wildfire response capabilities. The escalating demand for these water bombers has prompted De Havilland to consider expanding production capacity to meet global needs.
While De Havilland has existing orders for 38 water bombers, the wait time for new orders extends to 2032-2033 due to the intricate manufacturing process involving tens of thousands of parts, with the majority sourced locally. Aviation experts emphasize the urgent need for additional production lines to address the soaring demand driven by climate change impacts.
Concerns loom over potential foreign competition if De Havilland fails to meet the rising demand, risking Canadian manufacturing jobs. The federal government is urged to establish a national fleet of modern firefighting aircraft, with recent efforts including leasing aircraft to support provincial wildfire management.
Despite the critical role of aerial firefighting units in wildfire control, ground crews remain central to extinguishing fires. While aircraft play a significant role in containment and support operations, comprehensive wildfire management strategies encompass prevention and mitigation efforts alongside aerial support.
As governments strive to bolster wildfire response capabilities, the need for enhanced collaboration and resource allocation remains paramount in combating increasingly severe wildfire seasons.