The contract includes the purchase of five De Havilland Canadair DHC-515 waterbombers, marking a major step forward in strengthening the protection of communities and infrastructure during wildfire season. This $400-million investment will not only significantly enhance Alberta’s wildfire response capacity but also support the creation of good local jobs. The first aircraft is expected to arrive by spring 2031.
“Albertans expect their government to be ready when wildfire season hits, and that is exactly what we are doing. Our first responsibility is to keep Albertans safe. These Alberta-built waterbombers will strengthen our wildfire response, protect our communities and create hundreds of skilled jobs right here at home.”
Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta
“Investing in these waterbombers is an investment in the safety of all Albertans. These planes are critical for battling wildfire, and protecting our communities, economy and natural resources. These aircraft will help us protect Albertans for many years to come.”
Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks
The current airtanker fleet is strategically positioned among 13 bases across the province during wildfire season to ensure rapid response to new wildfires and reduce the spread of larger fires. These firefighting aircraft work by skimming water from lakes and dropping it on nearby fires, complementing the contracted planes that drop fire retardant to suppress the spread of wildfire.
Investing in job creation right here in Alberta
The contract with De Havilland Canada is projected to support hundreds of jobs and inject a multi-million-dollar boost into Alberta’s economy, reinforcing Alberta as a leader in aerospace innovation. It is the latest in a series of strategic investments aimed at strengthening Alberta’s wildfire response and expanding its growing aerospace sector.
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