As wildfires ravage Canada, the United States, and Europe, there is mounting pressure on De Havilland, the manufacturer of Canadair “Super Scooper” water bombers, to ramp up production. The company, based in Calgary, has decided to restart production of the Canadair after acquiring the water bomber program previously operated by Bombardier.
The Canadair aircraft, known worldwide for their firefighting capabilities, are meticulously handcrafted in Calgary with components sourced from across Canada. The revived production line, announced in 2022, is progressing well, with the first two planes expected to be completed and delivered by early 2028.
Government officials in Canada and Europe are urgently seeking to acquire these aircraft due to current shortages and aging fleets. The Canadair amphibious firefighting plane, first introduced in the 1960s, was specifically designed for battling large wildfires in the rugged Canadian wilderness. Its unique design enables it to maneuver through narrow canyons at low altitudes and swiftly scoop thousands of liters of water from lakes, rivers, and oceans.
Recent criticism from opposition politicians in France and Spain highlights the inadequacy of operational Canadairs in combating extreme weather conditions and wildfires. Canadian premiers, including Wab Kinew of Manitoba, have expressed frustration over the lack of new water bombers in recent summers.
The high demand for Canadair water bombers has prompted De Havilland to consider establishing a second production line to meet the needs of customers. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is collaborating with provincial counterparts and the federal government to facilitate a firm order from Ottawa, which would provide the necessary certainty for De Havilland to expand production capacity.
De Havilland, a major employer with about 4,000 workers in Calgary, Ontario, and Victoria, currently has orders for 38 water bombers, with delivery timelines ranging from 2032 to 2033. The aircraft require a multitude of parts, with approximately 80% sourced from within Canada.
Aviation expert John Gradek emphasizes the pressing need for additional production lines for Canadair water bombers, citing global demand driven by the escalating effects of climate change. The potential emergence of foreign competitors poses a threat to Canadian manufacturing jobs, underscoring the importance of meeting the rising demand for firefighting aircraft.
A Senate report released in June recommends the establishment of a national fleet of modern firefighting aircraft in Canada to address the increasing wildfire challenges. While aircraft play a crucial role in fire suppression efforts, they are just one component of a comprehensive firefighting strategy. Ground crews and preventative measures also play vital roles in combatting wildfires effectively.
The federal government is committed to enhancing Canada’s capacity to respond to severe wildfire seasons, with a focus on collaboration with provincial and territorial authorities. Minister for Emergency Management Eleanor Olszewski’s office underscores the importance of coordinated efforts to mitigate the impacts of wildfires and protect communities.