The federal government of Canada has announced the sale of 10 used CC-130H Hercules aircraft to Coulson Aviation Canada, a B.C.-based aerospace company. The planes, which were retired by the Royal Canadian Air Force in January, are set to be converted into firefighting aircraft. This move marks a significant step in enhancing Canada’s aerial firefighting capabilities, particularly amidst increasing concerns over wildfires.
Coulson Aviation, known for its expertise in aerial firefighting, will be responsible for converting these aircraft into operational waterbombers. This acquisition doubles Coulson’s existing fleet of C-130H aircraft from 10 to 20, positioning the company as a formidable player in the aerial firefighting sector worldwide.
With the government's decision to sell these aircraft and Coulson's plans for their conversion, the initiative underscores a focus on resource readiness for firefighting, especially as climate change impacts the frequency and intensity of wildfires in Canada. The two remaining Hercules aircraft that were not sold are expected to be put on standby for various uses, though details have not been specified at this time.
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