De Havilland ramps up water-bomber production as global wildfire demand soars
The Calgary manufacturer of the iconic Canadair Super Scooper is reviving production and eyeing a second line if Ottawa orders 50 aircraft.
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The world's demand for water bombers is outpacing supply. De Havilland, the Calgary-based aircraft manufacturer, is ramping up production of the Canadair Super Scooper—the iconic amphibious firefighting plane—and considering building a second production line if the federal government places a major order.
The company acquired the water-bomber program from Bombardier in 2015 and revived production in 2022 after a seven-year gap. Two aircraft are now taking shape at the Calgary assembly plant and are on track to deliver in early 2028. At full capacity, the current line produces about 10 water bombers annually.
"We are under pressure," said Neil Sweeney, De Havilland's vice-president of corporate affairs. "We know that this is a very important aircraft not only for Canada but for the world." The company has existing orders for 38 water bombers, with wait times stretching for new orders.
The pressure is coming from all sides. European leaders in France and Spain have faced political heat for not having enough operational Canadairs. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew said in June 2025, "We could use every water bomber we can get our hands on." Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is working with provincial counterparts and the federal government to secure a firm order from Ottawa.
Sweeney said the tipping point is clear: "If they made an order of 50 aircraft, we would build a second line tomorrow." A second production line would eventually increase output to 20 aircraft per year.
De Havilland employs about 4,000 people, predominantly in Calgary, Ontario and Victoria. The Super Scooper's unique design—high wings spanning 30 metres, a 6,100-litre water tank, and distinctive yellow and red exterior—allows it to scoop water directly from lakes, rivers and oceans in seconds and navigate narrow canyons at low altitude, capabilities unmatched by modified aircraft or helicopters.
By the numbers
How many water bombers is De Havilland currently producing annually at full capacity?
De Havilland's current production line produces about 10 water bombers annually at full capacity.
When are the two Canadair Super Scoopers now in assembly expected to be delivered?
The two aircraft under assembly at De Havilland's Calgary plant are on track to deliver in early 2028.
How many existing orders does De Havilland have for water bombers?
De Havilland has existing orders for 38 water bombers, with extended wait times for new orders.
What federal order size would trigger De Havilland to build a second production line?
De Havilland would build a second production line if the federal government placed an order for 50 aircraft, which would eventually increase annual output to 20 bombers per year.
