De Havilland Canada prepares first DHC-515 firefighting aircraft delivery

De Havilland Canada is moving towards delivery of its first DHC-515 firefighting aircraft, with final assembly due to begin at its Calgary facility later in 2026.

The aircraft, an updated version of the former CL-415, is scheduled for delivery in 2028, according to Neil Sweeney, the manufacturer's vice-president of corporate affairs, speaking at the Farnborough Airshow on 21 July.

DHC-515 manufacturing and flight testing

Production has already progressed considerably. The forward and centre fuselage sections are being joined, while the 28.6-metre-span wing box is under construction and will be moved to final assembly by the end of the year. Initial test flights are planned for next year.

Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW100 engines, the DHC-515 builds on the CL-415, a family that began in the 1960s with the piston-engined CL-215. After Bombardier discontinued the line in 2015, Viking Aircraft, a Longview Aviation Capital subsidiary, acquired the programme before later transferring it to De Havilland.

Although development has slipped from the original timetable, the company has been working since 2024 to meet the 2028 delivery target. The new aircraft features Garmin G300 avionics, an innovative water-drop control system, improved corrosion protection and a new air-conditioning system.

DHC-515 firefighting capacity and missions

The DHC-515 can cruise at up to 187 knots (346 km/h) and carry as much as 6,140 litres of water, which can be scooped while flying in as little as 12 seconds during passes over lakes and other bodies of water. It can also carry 680 litres of firefighting foam.

Beyond firefighting operations, De Havilland highlights the aircraft's flexibility for surveillance, maritime patrol and medical evacuation missions. The company holds firm orders for 38 aircraft, a substantial increase from the roughly 20 units under contract two years ago. Customers include government authorities in Croatia, Greece, France, Indonesia, Italy, Portugal and Spain.