The government of Newfoundland and Labrador is to replace part of its aerial firefighting fleet with four new Bombardier 415 amphibious aircraft, to be delivered from the second quarter of 2010 through 2011.

The firm order, which includes aircraft modifications, spare parts provisioning, training and technical support, is worth about $120 million at list prices.

Newfoundland and Labrador operates six Bombardier 215s. Since 1994, four 415 MPs and 69 415s have been delivered to Croatia, France, Greece, Italy, Malaysia, Ontario, Québec and Spain. A total of 66 of the 215 piston aircraft remain in service. The 415 has a maximum speed of 195kt (359km/h) and can typically complete nine drops an hour to deliver 55,233 litres (14,575USgal) of water or fire suppressant.

Firefighting Bombardier 415 
 © Bombardier

Source: Flight International