As wildfires ravage Canada, the United States, and Europe, the Canadair “Super Scooper” water bombers’ manufacturer faces mounting pressure to ramp up production, with calls for the government to place bulk orders. De Havilland, based in Calgary, has restarted the Canadair production line after acquiring the program previously managed by Bombardier until 2015.
These renowned aircraft are meticulously hand-built in Calgary, utilizing parts from a national supply chain. The reinvigorated production line, initiated in 2022, is progressing well, with the first two planes set for completion and delivery by early 2028.
Leaders in Canada and Europe are eager to acquire these aircraft due to current shortages and aging fleets. The Canadair amphibious firefighting plane, introduced in the 1960s, was specifically engineered for battling extensive wildfires in Canada’s wilderness. Its unique design allows it to maneuver through narrow canyons at low altitudes, swiftly scooping up thousands of liters of water from lakes, rivers, and oceans.
The latest version of the Super Scooper closely resembles its predecessors, 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 highlight the urgency for operational Canadairs to combat severe weather and wildfires effectively.
De Havilland is feeling the political pressure to meet demand, contemplating the establishment of a second production line alongside the ongoing production at its current facilities. The company is in discussions with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and federal authorities to secure a substantial order, potentially prompting the construction of a second line with a 50-aircraft order.
With existing orders for 38 water bombers, De Havilland aims to produce about 10 units annually at full capacity, with a second line expected to double the output. The waiting period for new orders extends to 2032-2033, emphasizing the extensive process involving tens of thousands of parts, predominantly sourced from Canada.
Experts, including John Gradek from McGill University, stress the necessity for additional production lines to meet global demand for Canadair water bombers amid escalating wildfire risks worldwide. The potential emergence of foreign competitors poses a threat to Canadian manufacturing jobs, prompting the need for sustained production to address the soaring demand for firefighting aircraft.
As the federal government focuses on bolstering domestic manufacturing and enhancing the national economy, the imperative for a modern firefighting aircraft fleet gains significance. While aircraft play a pivotal role in wildfire containment, complementing ground crews and aiding in perimeter control, they are just one facet of a comprehensive firefighting strategy that includes prevention and mitigation measures.