The Canadair CL-215 is a twin-engine amphibious aircraft developed by Canadair (now part of Bombardier) in the 1960s. Specifically designed for aerial firefighting, the CL-215 is renowned for its ability to scoop water from lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, allowing it to fight wildfires in remote or difficult-to-access areas. The aircraft’s rugged design and specialized firefighting capabilities have made it a valuable tool for firefighting organizations worldwide. With its high-speed scoop and ability to carry up to 6,137 liters (1,620 gallons) of water, the CL-215 is highly efficient in wildfire suppression operations.

Beyond its firefighting role, the CL-215 has also been used for search and rescue, surveillance, and transportation. Despite being replaced by more advanced models like the CL-415, the CL-215 remains a significant part of firefighting fleets in various countries.

Key Specifications (CL-215)

• Crew: 2 (Pilot and Co-pilot).
• Capacity: Up to 6,137 liters (1,620 gallons) of water or retardant.
• Length: 18.50 m (60 ft 8 in).
• Wingspan: 26.40 m (86 ft 7 in).
• Height: 7.50 m (24 ft 7 in).
• Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 22,680 kg (50,000 lb).
• Engines: 2 × Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-27 turboprop engines.
• Cruise Speed: ~365 km/h (227 mph).
• Range: ~1,290 km (800 miles).
• Ceiling: 6,096 m (20,000 ft).

Notable Features

• Water Scooping Capability: The CL-215 can scoop water from a body of water while flying at low altitude, allowing it to reload quickly for continuous firefighting efforts.
• Amphibious Design: The aircraft is equipped with large, flat floats, enabling it to take off and land on both water and land, which is crucial for accessing remote firefighting sites.
• Efficient Aerial Firefighting: With its large water-carrying capacity, the CL-215 can make a significant impact on wildfire suppression in a single pass, helping to control fires quickly.
• Rugged Build: Designed for tough, operational environments, the CL-215 has a sturdy airframe that can handle rough landings, water takeoffs, and challenging weather conditions.
• Search and Rescue Role: In addition to firefighting, the CL-215 has been used in search and rescue operations, thanks to its ability to land in water and carry rescue equipment.

Operators & Usage

• Firefighting Organizations: The CL-215 has been used by firefighting agencies worldwide, including in countries like France, Italy, and the United States, for wildfire suppression.
• Search and Rescue Operations: Some operators have adapted the CL-215 for search and rescue missions, taking advantage of its amphibious nature and large capacity.
• Government and Military Operators: Some air forces and government agencies have used the CL-215 for surveillance, patrols, and maritime operations, including the Royal Canadian Air Force.
• Commercial Operators: In some instances, the CL-215 has been operated commercially for water-based transport and cargo operations, particularly in regions with significant bodies of water.