Conair Hits Milestone with 20th Dash 8-400 Conversion Amid Rising Wildfire Threats

In a remarkable achievement for the aerial firefighting industry, Abbotsford's Conair Group Inc. has officially completed the conversion of its 20th Dash 8-400 aircraft into firefighting planes. This milestone is a testament to the growing demand for advanced firefighting capabilities in the face of escalating wildfire threats, with 15 of these aircraft converted within just the last four years. Michael Benson, the director of business development at Conair, emphasized the company's long-standing commitment to building airtankers, stating that they have been in production since 2005. The first multi-role airtanker was delivered to the French government, marking the beginning of a steady increase in production and deployment of these crucial aircraft. The Dash 8-400 models have not only enhanced firefighting responses but have also modernized aging fleets, mitigating issues such as obsolescence and parts shortages that can hinder operational readiness. The Dash 8-400AT and its multi-role variant, the Dash 8-400MRE, have seen strong interest from government agencies, with all units being pre-ordered or contracted long-term as they are completed. The demand surge is largely attributed to the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires, a trend that has become more pronounced in recent years. France currently operates eight Dash 8-400MRE aircraft, recognized as the world's first multi-role large airtankers. These versatile planes are not only deployed for firefighting but also play a critical role in transporting passengers, cargo, and medical emergencies during crises such as wars or natural disasters. Recent orders from Saskatchewan for two Dash 8-400MRE and two Dash 8-400AT further illustrate the growing reliance on this technology across various regions, including Australia, Alaska, Washington, British Columbia, and Alberta. Looking ahead, Conair plans to deliver three additional Dash 8 airtankers for the 2025 fire season. Bertrand Lamaison, Conair's director of engineering and customer support, noted the extensive process involved in engineering, building, certifying, and delivering new airtanker models. However, with streamlined production processes, they are poised to maximize efficiency and continue meeting the urgent needs of firefighting agencies. In addition to its manufacturing prowess, Conair boasts the largest fixed-wing aerial firefighting fleet in the world, which includes a diverse array of aircraft such as CL415 water scoopers, Fire Boss water scoopers, RJ85 airtankers, and AT802 airtankers. This extensive fleet reinforces Conair's position as a leader in aerial firefighting, dedicated to improving safety and efficacy in wildfire response efforts. For those interested in learning more about Conair and its innovative aerial firefighting solutions, further information can be found at conair.ca. As wildfires continue to pose significant threats, the ongoing advancements in aerial firefighting techniques and equipment will be crucial in safeguarding communities and protecting natural landscapes.