In the midst of a challenging wildfire season in Canada, the United States, and Europe, there is mounting pressure on De Havilland, the manufacturer of the Canadair “Super Scooper” water bombers, to ramp up production. The federal government is also urged to place a large order for these planes.
De Havilland, based in Calgary, has decided to restart the production of Canadair after acquiring the water bomber program from Bombardier in 2015. The assembly of these renowned aircraft primarily takes place in Calgary, utilizing a supply chain spread across the country. The revival of production, announced in 2022, is progressing well, with the first two aircraft expected to be finished and delivered by early 2028.
Facing shortages and aging fleets, Canadian provincial leaders and European officials are eager to secure these aircraft. Originally developed in the 1960s, the Canadair firefighting plane was specifically designed for combating large fires in the Canadian wilderness. Its distinctive design enables it to maneuver through narrow canyons at low altitudes and swiftly scoop up thousands of liters of water from various water bodies.
The latest iteration of the Super Scooper closely resembles previous Canadair models, featuring expansive high wings, a 6,100-liter water tank, and the iconic yellow and red color scheme. Recent criticisms from opposition politicians in France and Spain have highlighted the insufficiency of operational Canadairs, emphasizing the need for enhanced preparedness in dealing with extreme weather and wildfires.
De Havilland is feeling the political pressure as demands for the aircraft surge. The company is contemplating the establishment of a second production line to meet the soaring demand. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is actively engaging with provincial counterparts and the federal government to facilitate a substantial order from Ottawa, which could prompt the manufacturer to initiate construction of a second line.
Currently, De Havilland has orders for 38 water bombers, with delivery timelines projected between 2032 and 2033. The production process involves numerous parts, with approximately 80% of them sourced from Canada. There is a growing need for additional production lines for Canadairs, as highlighted by aviation expert John Gradek, who warns of potential foreign competition if the demand is not met promptly.
The Senate report on wildfires in Canada recommends the creation of a national fleet of modern firefighting aircraft, reflecting the urgency to bolster firefighting capabilities. While aircraft play a crucial role in fire management, they are just one component in a comprehensive wildfire-fighting strategy that also includes ground crews, prevention, and mitigation efforts. The federal government is committed to enhancing the country’s capacity to respond effectively to escalating wildfire seasons.