The Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC) has secured 12 leased aerial assets to improve provincial and territorial wildfire response during periods of elevated wildfire activity – something that has been made possible through the Government of Canada’s investment of CAD 316.7 million over the next five years.
This investment addresses four primary objectives: increase Canadian surge capacity during periods of elevated wildfire activity, support rapid deployment of resources, address provincial and territorial gaps, and enhance Canada’s wildfire resilience.
This summer, Canadian wildfire agencies will have access to the following resources:
• Four Dash 8-400 AT (Land-based Airtankers), one TBM960AA (Birddog), and two Forward Attack Tanker Bases through Conair Group Inc.
• Three Airbus AS332 L & L1 (Heavy rotary wing helicopters) via Coldstream Helicopters Ltd.
• Two Sikorsky S-92A (Heavy rotary wing helicopters) via VIH Helicopters.
These aerial assets will be strategically positioned in Canada based on provincial and territorial need, fire activity, and preparedness level. However, aircraft can be relocated at any time to address the current situation.
Kelsey Winter, Executive Director of the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre, said: “A pan-Canadian response that assists our provincial and territorial partners in reducing the increasing impact of wildfires is paramount. CIFFC is honoured to coordinate these aerial assets on behalf of our member agencies. Together, we are building a more wildfire-resilient future for our country.”
To utilise the federally leased aircraft, provincial and territorial wildfire agencies will follow normal CIFFC processes and submit a resource request to CIFFC. When requests come, they will be prioritised through CIFFC’s formal Canadian Multi-Agency Coordination Group and established coordination process. This is the primary forum for triaging and prioritising the allocation of shared wildfire response resources in Canada, including aircraft, personnel, and equipment.
Tim Hodgson, Canada’s Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, said: “Our government is, first and foremost, focused on protecting Canadians by strengthening our ability to fight wildfire in 2026 and beyond. By providing provinces and territories with critical firefighting resources, we are helping protect lives, homes and communities for years to come.”
