As wildfires continue to ravage Canada, the United States, and Europe, there is mounting pressure on the manufacturer of Canadair “Super Scooper” water bombers to boost production. De Havilland, based in Calgary, has restarted the production of Canadair planes after acquiring the program from Bombardier in 2015.
The renowned Canadair aircraft are meticulously hand-built in Calgary, with components sourced from across Canada. The revival of the production line, announced in 2022, is progressing well, with the first two aircraft expected to be completed and delivered by early 2028.
Amid current shortages and aging fleets, Canadian premiers and European leaders are eager to acquire these aircraft. Designed in the 1960s, Canadair amphibious firefighting planes were specifically crafted for combating large wildfires in the Canadian wilderness. Their unique ability to maneuver at low altitudes through narrow canyons and swiftly scoop water from various sources makes them highly effective.
Facing criticism from opposition politicians in France and Spain for insufficient operational Canadairs, De Havilland is feeling the political pressure. The company is exploring the possibility of establishing a second production line to meet the soaring demand.
With existing orders for 38 water bombers and delivery timelines stretching to 2032-2033, De Havilland is considering ramping up production capacity to cater to global demand. The demand for Canadair aircraft is surging worldwide due to the escalating wildfire crisis driven by climate change.
To prevent potential competition from foreign companies, De Havilland must meet the increasing demand for water bombers promptly. Failure to do so could lead to the development of rival firefighting aircraft by other nations, potentially jeopardizing Canadian manufacturing jobs.
As calls grow for a national fleet of modern firefighting aircraft in Canada, the federal government has taken steps to lease aircraft to support wildfire management efforts. While aerial firefighting units play a crucial role in wildfire control, they are just one aspect of a comprehensive strategy that also includes prevention and mitigation measures. The government is committed to enhancing the country’s wildfire response capabilities in the face of intensifying wildfire seasons.