Firefighting Industry Innovates Amid Rising Wildfire Threat

The escalating threat of wildfires has driven the firefighting industry to innovate, leading to the development of new technologies and aircraft fleets, such as De Havilland Canada's DHC-515 and Leonardo's MAFFS 2 system. These advancements aim to enhance operational efficiency and meet the rising demand for firefighting resources.

As wildfires have become a year-round concern, experts in aerial firefighting are now referring to "fire years" instead of just "fire seasons." The increasing frequency and severity of wildfires are attributed to rising temperatures and extended dry periods. In 2023, Europe experienced one of its worst wildfire years since 2000, with fires consuming an area roughly twice the size of Luxembourg (over 500,000 hectares or 1.2 million acres).

John Gould, president, United Aerial Firefighting Association and CEO, 10 Tanker, highlighted that areas previously untouched by wildfires are now facing significant fire outbreaks. He remarked, “Places that we have never seen fires are starting to have fires... the burns are larger, more severe than ever.” This shift has led to more frequent deployments of firefighting aircraft in regions like Australia and Europe.

In response to the surge in wildfire incidents, governments are actively enhancing their aerial firefighting capabilities. This is evident in the joint procurement of the DHC-515 amphibious aircraft, which will help EU nations improve their operational readiness against wildfires. The new aircraft is designed to replace outdated models, boosting reliability and corrosion resistance. The European Commission's financial backing has also allowed DHC-515 production to resume after an eight-year hiatus.

The versatility of firefighting aircraft is being expanded through modifications to existing military airlifters. For example, Embraer has successfully incorporated the MAFFS 2 system into the KC-390, which has played a crucial role in recent wildfire operations in Brazil, where the Brazilian Air Force reported delivering around 1 million liters of water in a few months. Additionally, the capabilities of land-based aircraft, such as the C-130 Hercules and retrofitted CH-47 Chinook helicopters, are increasingly recognized as viable alternatives in diverse environments.

Several companies are advancing their firefighting capabilities by developing next-generation aircraft. De Havilland Canada has begun producing the DHC-515 amphibious aircraft, modernizing the Canadair CL-215 family. This initiative is backed by a joint procurement effort involving 22 units from six EU countries—Croatia, Greece, France, Italy, Portugal, and Spain—supported by the European Commission.

Leonardo, in partnership with United Aeronautical Corp, has adapted the MAFFS 2 system for the C-27J Spartan, a modular aerial firefighting solution capable of delivering about 7,500 liters (1,980 gallons) of water or retardant. This system allows for rapid installation and removal, enhancing flexibility for firefighting missions.

While amphibious aircraft like the DHC-515 are highly effective near water sources, they may face challenges when deployed further inland. Operators are also recognizing the potential of land-based aircraft to fulfill similar firefighting roles. For instance, Coulson Aviation is converting Boeing 737-700s into firefighting platforms capable of delivering 19,000 liters of water or retardant.