Rising Wildfires Boost Global Demand for De Havilland Canada’s DHC 515 Waterbomber
As wildfires intensify worldwide, demand is surging for De Havilland Canada’s new DHC 515 waterbomber, the only aircraft purpose-built to scoop and drop water directly on wildfires. Developed at a facility near Calgary International Airport, the amphibious plane is seen as a crucial addition to global firefighting fleets.
The DHC 515 follows a legacy that began in the late 1960s with the Canadair CL-215, later updated with the CL-415 in the 1990s. Both earlier models remain vital tools in firefighting operations across the globe. Production of those aircraft ended in 2015, but De Havilland’s new model is expected to reinvigorate the fleet.
Advanced Features and Capabilities
The DHC 515 includes major upgrades, such as modern avionics, an improved water-drop control system, enhanced rudder controls, and new air conditioning. Its first flight is scheduled for 2027, with Greece set to receive the first delivery in 2028.
Pilots praise the aircraft for its manoeuvrability and power. Equipped with Pratt & Whitney engines, the DHC 515 can quickly escape danger zones while flying low and slow enough for precise water drops.
Using probes mounted beneath its hull, the plane can scoop 1,400 gallons (5,443 kg) of water in just 8 to 12 seconds. Once loaded, it climbs back into the air to attack fires directly. Pilots can repeat this process every two to three minutes when a fire is near a water source.
“It’s common for us to do 40 or 50 drops in a four-hour cycle,” said Scott Blue, a CL-415 pilot with Bridger Aerospace. “Some crews have managed as many as 70 or 80.”
Global Orders Reflect Urgent Demand
De Havilland Canada estimates a worldwide demand of 250 to 350 waterbombers. So far, it has secured 31 firm orders for the DHC 515. European nations including Greece, Spain, Portugal, Croatia, Italy, and France have collectively ordered 22 aircraft. In Canada, Manitoba has ordered three, while Ontario has requested six.
“So, we anticipate that this will be a very full order book in very short order,” said Neil Sweeney, De Havilland Canada’s Vice President.
With climate change intensifying wildfire seasons, the DHC 515 is set to play a pivotal role in global firefighting strategies.
with inputs from Reuters
