Canadian province Manitoba is to order three new De Havilland Canada 515 waterbombers, becoming the first customer for the new-build firefighting aircraft outside Europe.

Delivery of the first example is expected in 2031, with the remainder following a year later. No details of the transaction value were disclosed, however.

DHC-515

Source: De Havilland Canada

Manitoba expects to receive its first DHC-515 in 2031

“Upgrading our fleet with these three new DHC-515 waterbombers reflects our commitment to ensure that our front-line firefighters have the tools they need to protect Manitobans,” says the province’s Premier Wab Kinew.

Launched in 2022, the DHC-515 builds on the success of the earlier CL-215/415 waterbombers, introducing improved performance with more powerful Pratt & Whitney Canada PW123AF engines and modernised avionics.

In September 2024, De Havilland Canada said it held firm orders for 20 examples from European nations; delivery of the first DHC-515 is expected in 2028.

Dominic Perry is Aerospace Editor, Europe contributing extensively to flightglobal.com. Although specialising in the coverage of the helicopter industry, he has written on most topics in aerospace – be they commercial, defence or business aviation. In addition, there has been an increasing focus on the decarbonisation of the industry and zero-emission flight initiatives. He also helps to edit Flight International.View full Profile

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