MRO & Manufacturing
De Havilland Canada Advances Production of DHC-515 Firefighting Aircraft
De Havilland Canada progresses DHC-515 amphibious firefighting aircraft production with key milestones and orders from EU and Canadian provinces.
This article is based on an official press release from De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited.
On March 10, 2026, De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (DHC) issued a comprehensive production update regarding the De Havilland Canadair 515 (DHC-515) amphibious firefighting aircraft. The announcement marks a critical milestone in the revival of heavy waterbomber manufacturing, a sector that had seen no new purpose-built aircraft produced for nearly a decade. As global wildfire seasons grow increasingly severe, the resumption of this production line represents a vital development for international aerial firefighting fleets.
According to the official press release, manufacturing is actively progressing at the company’s facilities in Calgary, Alberta. The update provided a detailed look at the structural assembly of the first DHC-515 airframes, alongside a robust overview of the aircraft’s growing international and domestic orders book. The program, which officially launched in March 2022, is now moving steadily toward its first scheduled deliveries.
We have reviewed the production data, historical context, and order specifications provided by De Havilland Canada and associated industry research to outline the current status of the DHC-515 program.
Production Milestones and Manufacturing Progress
Fuselage and Wing Box Assembly
De Havilland Canada’s update highlighted several major structural achievements on the Calgary aerostructure assembly line. The company confirmed that the forward fuselage of the first DHC-515 has been successfully formed by joining the aircraft’s cockpit and hull. This structural integration is a primary indicator that the initial airframe is moving out of the component phase and into major assembly.
Additionally, the manufacturer announced the completion of the first DHC-515 wing box. Measuring 28.6 meters in length, this massive structure is a critical component of the aircraft’s high-wing design, which is engineered to withstand the extreme aerodynamic stresses of low-altitude firefighting operations.
Supply Chain and Avionics Integration
The production of the DHC-515 relies on a modernized Canadian aerospace supply chain. In January 2025, Firan Technology Group (FTG) Corporation was selected to supply updated cockpit control panel assemblies. According to the program’s supply chain data, the design and production of these components are currently taking place at FTG’s Toronto facility. The first completed DHC-515 is expected to be certified and delivered to Greece in 2028, establishing the timeline for the integration of these advanced systems.
Global Demand and Growing Order Book
European Union Consortium
The DHC-515 has secured a substantial backlog of orders, driven heavily by European nations seeking to replace aging fleets. De Havilland is currently producing 22 aircraft for a consortium of European Union customers, which includes Croatia, Spain, Italy, Greece, Portugal, and France.
Greece has been particularly proactive in its fleet modernization. The Greek government previously approved a €361 million ($384 million) purchase agreement for seven DHC-515s. Deliveries for the Greek fleet are scheduled between 2027 and 2030. Notably, two of these aircraft are being financed through the European Union’s rescEU civil protection program, underscoring the strategic regional importance of these waterbombers.
Canadian Provincial Fleet Modernization
Domestic demand within Canada is also driving the DHC-515 production schedule. De Havilland has signed contracts with the provinces of Manitoba, Ontario, and Alberta to supply new aircraft for their respective wildfire management agencies.
In February 2026, the Alberta government announced a C$400 million ($292 million) investment to acquire five DHC-515s. According to provincial statements, these new waterbombers will join Alberta’s existing fleet, which currently includes four older CL-215s and 14 other airtankers, with the first delivery expected in the spring of 2031. Furthermore, the province of Manitoba has confirmed its intent to purchase three DHC-515 aircraft to bolster its own emergency response capabilities.
Aircraft Specifications and Legacy
Performance and Capabilities
The DHC-515 is engineered specifically for the rigorous and dangerous demands of aerial firefighting. It is an enhanced, modernized iteration of its famous predecessors, featuring significant upgrades in avionics and operational efficiency.
According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the aircraft boasts the following capabilities:
- Capacity: The water tanks can hold up to 6,137 liters (1,621 US gallons) of water.
- Refill Speed: The aircraft is capable of scooping water from lakes or seas to completely refill its tanks in just 12 seconds while skimming the surface.
- Performance: Powered by twin Pratt & Whitney Canada PW123AF turboprop engines, the DHC-515 maintains a normal cruise speed of roughly 333 km/h to 346 km/h (187 knots).
- Avionics: The flight deck is equipped with a state-of-the-art Universal Avionics’ Insight touchscreen instrument suite, vastly improving situational awareness for flight crews.
“Because the DHC-515 can operate in extreme conditions, fly at low altitudes (as low as 100 feet) over infernos, and rapidly reload without returning to an airport, it is considered one of the most vital tools for modern wildfire suppression.”
, Industry Research Report on DHC-515 Capabilities
Historical Context
The DHC-515 is the direct descendant of the iconic Canadair CL-215, which was introduced in the late 1960s, and the CL-415, introduced in 1994. Production of the CL-415 ceased in 2015 under its former owner, Bombardier. In 2016, Viking Air, which later merged with sister company De Havilland Canada under the parent company Longview Aviation Capital, acquired the type certificates for both legacy aircraft. Following a period of evaluation and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the updated DHC-515 program was officially launched in March 2022 and has since ramped up to its current active manufacturing state.
AirPro News analysis
The resumption of purpose-built waterbomber production carries profound implications for both global climate crisis management and the Canadian aerospace sector. The nearly 10-year gap in production left international firefighting fleets aging precisely as climate change accelerated the frequency and intensity of global wildfires. The devastating 2023 wildfire season starkly highlighted the critical shortage of specialized aerial firefighting equipment worldwide.
Economically, the DHC-515 program represents a significant revitalization of Canadian aerospace manufacturing. The assembly operations in Calgary, Alberta, alongside supply chain contributions from Ontario and other regions, are injecting millions of dollars into the national economy and creating hundreds of high-value aerospace jobs. As governments worldwide recognize the necessity of dedicated, rapid-response amphibious aircraft, De Havilland Canada is positioned to dominate a niche but globally essential market for the foreseeable future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the De Havilland Canadair 515 (DHC-515)?
The DHC-515 is the latest generation of purpose-built amphibious firefighting aircraft, designed to scoop water from bodies of water and drop it on wildfires. It is the modernized successor to the Canadair CL-215 and CL-415.
When will the first DHC-515 be delivered?
According to current production timelines, the first completed DHC-515 is expected to be certified and delivered to Greece in 2028.
How much water can the DHC-515 hold?
The aircraft has a capacity of 6,137 liters (1,621 US gallons) and can refill its tanks in just 12 seconds while skimming the surface of a lake or sea.
Who is buying the DHC-515?
De Havilland has secured orders from a European Union consortium (including Greece, Croatia, Spain, Italy, Portugal, and France) for 22 aircraft, as well as domestic orders from Canadian provinces including Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario.
Sources:
De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited Press Release
Industry Research Report: De Havilland Canadair 515 (DHC-515) Production Update (March 11, 2026)
Photo Credit: De Havilland
MRO & Manufacturing
De Havilland Canadair 515 Production Advances for European Delivery
De Havilland Canada progresses production of 22 Canadair 515 firefighting aircraft for six European countries under rescEU, enhancing aerial firefighting capacity.
This article is based on an official press release from the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC).
De Havilland Canadair 515 Production on Track for European Deliveries
As global wildfire risks continue to escalate due to climate change, the demand for specialized aerial firefighting capabilities has reached unprecedented levels. In response to this growing crisis, the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) announced on May 25, 2026, that De Havilland Canada (DHC) is officially on schedule to deliver the first batch of its next-generation amphibious firefighting Commercial-Aircraft to European partners.
According to the official press release, the newly branded De Havilland Canadair 515 is currently advancing through its production phases in Calgary, Alberta. The Manufacturing milestone stems from historic government-to-government (G2G) Contracts signed in 2024, which secured an Orders for 22 aircraft across six European nations. This agreement represents the largest purchase order in De Havilland Canada’s history.
We at AirPro News recognize this development as a critical step in reinforcing international disaster response fleets. By utilizing a G2G contracting approach, the CCC acted as the Prime Contractor, providing the necessary scale and financial certainty for DHC to launch its new production line and meet the urgent climate-crisis requirements of the European Union.
Strengthening Europe’s Aerial Firefighting Fleet
The rescEU Initiative and National Fleets
The 22-aircraft order is a highly coordinated international effort heavily supported by the European Union’s Civil Protection Mechanism, known as rescEU. This program aims to strengthen Europe’s collective disaster response capacity by pooling resources across member states. According to the CCC announcement, the six EU member states receiving the aircraft are Croatia, Greece, Portugal, Spain, France, and Italy.
The distribution of the fleet is strategically divided to maximize regional coverage. Of the 22 aircraft ordered, 12 will form the core of the EU’s shared firefighting fleet, hosted by the six participating member states. The remaining 10 aircraft were purchased directly by the member states to supplement and modernize their individual national fleets.
Maintenance and Operational Readiness
To ensure the long-term operational readiness of these critical assets, De Havilland Canada has also expanded its European support network. In April 2026, DHC signed a strategic agreement with Portugal-headquartered Avincis, one of the world’s largest providers of emergency aerial services. Avincis will serve as a key Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) supplier and engineering partner for both the new Canadair 515 and legacy fleets operating across Europe and Morocco.
“CCC is pleased to announce that De Havilland Canada (DHC) is on track to deliver the world’s most advanced, purpose-built waterbomber to European partners… As Prime Contractor, CCC is proud to work alongside DHC to ensure timely, reliable Delivery of these next-generation aircraft.”
The De Havilland Canadair 515: Technical Capabilities
Unmatched Water Capacity and Rapid Refill
The Canadair 515 builds upon the proven, 50-year lineage of the Canadair CL-215 and CL-415 waterbombers, incorporating modern avionics, enhanced safety features, and updated production standards. The aircraft is purpose-built for the grueling demands of aerial firefighting.
According to technical specifications provided in the announcement, the Canadair 515 is capable of delivering nearly 700,000 liters of water into a fire zone per day, a volume that more than doubles the capacity of its closest competitor. Furthermore, the aircraft can scoop and refill its tanks in just 12 seconds from nearby fresh or saltwater sources, such as rivers, small lakes, or oceans. This rapid-refill capability allows for continuous, high-frequency drops without the need to return to an airport.
The aircraft is also uniquely suited for challenging geographic conditions. It remains the only aircraft in its category certified to operate in waves up to two meters (6.6 feet), making it highly versatile for coastal operations and turbulent water sources.
Honoring a Legacy
The aircraft underwent a meaningful rebranding in October 2024. Originally launched as the “DHC-515 Firefighter” in March 2022, DHC announced during a milestone event in Brussels that the aircraft would be officially renamed the “De Havilland Canadair 515.”
“When people are close to a wildfire in Europe, they ask when the Canadairs will come to help protect their community. Today, we are recognizing the history of service of the Canadair fleet by renaming the aircraft the ‘De Havilland Canadair 515.'”
Economic Impact and Canadian Aerospace Leadership
Job Creation in Alberta and Beyond
Beyond its environmental and safety impacts, the Canadair 515 program is delivering a substantial economic boost to Canada’s aerospace sector. The establishment of the new production line in Calgary, Alberta, is generating thousands of jobs and reinforcing Canada’s leadership in specialized aerospace manufacturing.
The 22-aircraft order is expected to create approximately 650 direct, sustainable jobs at De Havilland Canada. Additionally, the program will support an estimated 2,600 jobs within the broader Canadian aerospace supply chain. This “Team Canada” effort was made possible through the collaboration of Export Development Canada (EDC) and the CCC, aligning international market needs with domestic industrial capacity.
“The acquisition of Canadian firefighting aircraft by EU countries is a vital step in tackling wildfires in the EU and reflects our commitment to mitigating the effects of climate change together as trustworthy partners… The acquisition is expected to create almost 650 new and sustainable jobs at De Havilland Canada, as well as 2,600 additional jobs in the supply chain.”
AirPro News analysis
The successful advancement of the De Havilland Canadair 515 production line underscores the effectiveness of the government-to-government (G2G) procurement model in the aerospace sector. By utilizing the Canadian Commercial Corporation as the prime contractor, De Havilland Canada was insulated from many of the traditional financial risks associated with launching a clean-sheet or heavily modernized aircraft production line. The guaranteed 22-aircraft order provided the critical mass necessary to justify the capital expenditure in the Calgary facility.
Furthermore, the strategic rebranding to include the “Canadair” name highlights the importance of brand equity in specialized aviation markets. In Europe, “Canadair” is a proprietary eponym for waterbombers. By embracing this legacy, DHC has solidified its relationship with European operators and the public, positioning the Canadair 515 not just as a new product, but as the continuation of a trusted, life-saving lineage in the face of worsening global wildfire seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the De Havilland Canadair 515?
It is a next-generation amphibious firefighting aircraft, previously known as the DHC-515 Firefighter, built by De Havilland Canada. It is the modernized successor to the legendary Canadair CL-215 and CL-415 waterbombers. - Which countries are receiving the new aircraft?
A total of 22 aircraft are being delivered to six European nations: Croatia, Greece, Portugal, Spain, France, and Italy. Twelve of these will form a shared EU fleet under the rescEU program. - How fast can the Canadair 515 refill its water tanks?
The aircraft can scoop and refill its tanks with water in just 12 seconds from nearby fresh or saltwater sources, allowing it to drop up to 700,000 liters of water per day. - Where is the aircraft being built?
The De Havilland Canadair 515 is being manufactured at a new production facility in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Sources:
Photo Credit: De Havilland Canada
MRO & Manufacturing
General Atomics Do228 NXT Completes Maiden Flight in Germany
GA-ATS completed the maiden flight of the modernized Do228 NXT turboprop in Germany; aircraft to debut at ILA Berlin and Farnborough 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from General Atomics AeroTec Systems (GA-ATS).
General Atomics AeroTec Systems (GA-ATS) has successfully completed the maiden flight of the Do228 NXT demonstrator, marking a significant milestone in the revival of the iconic turboprop aircraft. According to an official press release from the company, the modernized aircraft took to the skies on May 2, 2026, at the historic Oberpfaffenhofen site in Germany, nearly 45 years after the original Dornier 228 first flew.
Following its successful first flight, the next-generation aircraft is now preparing for its global introduction. GA-ATS announced that the Do228 NXT will make its first public trade show appearance at the ILA Berlin Air Show from June 10 to 14, 2026. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft will make its international debut in the United Kingdom at the Farnborough International Airshow in July 2026.
We note that this development represents a major step for European aerospace manufacturing. By bringing a proven 1980s airframe into the 21st century with state-of-the-art avionics and updated production methods, GA-ATS is positioning the Do228 NXT to meet growing global demand for versatile, multi-mission aircraft capable of operating in harsh environments.
The Revival of a Legacy Platform
Historical Context and Acquisition
The original Dornier 228 was developed in the early 1980s as a twin-engine, short takeoff and landing (STOL) utility aircraft. Historical production data provided in the company’s background materials indicates that approximately 245 units were built in Germany, with an additional 125 manufactured under license in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The aircraft program changed hands several times over the decades before the US-based General Atomics Group acquired the Oberpfaffenhofen production site in early 2021.
Over the past five years, GA-ATS states it has established a new production line, expanded its supplier networks, and brought key manufacturing components, such as the wings, in-house to restart series production of the modernized Do228 NXT.
The Maiden Flight and Testing Phase
The demonstrator’s maiden flight on May 2, 2026, initiated a rigorous flight test campaign. Over the coming weeks, the company reports that the aircraft will execute various flight patterns, takeoffs, and landings to collect performance data across different altitudes and speeds.
In the official press release, Martina Hierle, Test Pilot and Program Manager at GA-ATS, highlighted the success of the initial flight:
“Taking the Do228 NXT into the air for the first time was an extraordinary experience. The aircraft performed flawlessly. You can immediately sense what this aircraft is capable of and that the Do228 NXT is ready for demanding missions around the world.”
Technical Specifications and Modernization
Avionics and Propulsion
The Do228 NXT is positioned as a highly adaptable multi-role platform, heavily upgraded from its predecessor. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the cockpit is now equipped with a Universal EFI-890R Integrated Glass Cockpit. This system features four large, sunlight-readable high-definition displays, which serve as Primary Flight Displays and Multi-Function Displays to enhance situational awareness and reduce pilot workload. Propulsion is provided by two Honeywell TPE331-10 engines paired with 5-blade MTV-27 propellers.
Mission Versatility and Manufacturing
Retaining the exceptional STOL capabilities of the original design, the Do228 NXT can operate from unpaved, short, or remote runways. GA-ATS notes that the rectangular cabin can be quickly reconfigured to accommodate up to 19 passengers, cargo transport, medical evacuation (medevac), border patrol, or maritime surveillance.
For extended operations, the company offers optional wet wing tanks that can push the aircraft’s flight endurance beyond 10 hours. Furthermore, GA-ATS has introduced modern production methods, including tartaric sulfuric acid anodizing (TSAA). This new surface treatment is designed to significantly improve corrosion protection, a critical feature for operations in harsh climates.
Upcoming Trade Fair Debuts
ILA Berlin and Farnborough
The Do228 NXT will be officially unveiled to the global public at the ILA Berlin aerospace trade show, held at BER Airport from June 10 to 14, 2026. Industry data notes that the event will host 750 exhibitors from 37 countries. Following Berlin, the aircraft will travel to the Farnborough International Airshow from July 20 to 24, 2026, to target international buyers.
Craig Simpson, Managing Director of GA-ATS, emphasized the importance of these upcoming debuts in the company’s statement:
“The first flight of the NXT demonstrator is the culmination of years of dedicated work across all departments… The Do228 NXT is not just an upgrade – it is our answer to the demands of modern aviation, and we are proud to bring it to market. We want to show the aircraft and its features to the world, as there is widespread international interest in the Do228 NXT.”
AirPro News analysis
The successful revival of the Do228 program highlights a broader strategic push to maintain and strengthen sovereign industrial manufacturing capabilities within Germany and Europe. We observe that the aviation industry is increasingly recognizing the value of taking aerodynamically proven, rugged legacy airframes and retrofitting them with 21st-century avionics and sustainable manufacturing processes. This approach significantly reduces development costs while delivering highly reliable aircraft to the market.
Furthermore, GA-ATS appears to be strategically targeting regions with harsh operational climates, such as the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The aircraft’s enhanced corrosion protection, combined with its STOL capabilities and flexible payload options, makes it a highly attractive platform for regional operators and military forces operating in austere environments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Do228 NXT?
The Do228 NXT is a modernized, next-generation version of the classic Dornier 228 turboprop aircraft, manufactured by General Atomics AeroTec Systems (GA-ATS) in Germany. It features updated avionics, modern manufacturing processes, and versatile multi-mission capabilities.
When did the Do228 NXT make its first flight?
The Do228 NXT demonstrator successfully completed its maiden flight on May 2, 2026, at the Oberpfaffenhofen site in Germany.
Where will the Do228 NXT be exhibited in 2026?
The aircraft will make its public trade show debut at the ILA Berlin Air Show from June 10–14, 2026, followed by its international debut at the Farnborough International Airshow in the UK from July 20–24, 2026.
Sources
Photo Credit: General Atomics
MRO & Manufacturing
Airhub Aviation Certified for Boeing 737 MAX Maintenance in Lithuania
Airhub Aviation expands its certification to include Boeing 737 MAX Line Maintenance and CAMO, enhancing support for modern aircraft fleets in Lithuania.
This article is based on an official press release from Airhub Aviation.
Airhub Aviation has officially expanded its Maintenance Organization Certificate to include the Boeing 737 MAX, securing regulatory approval for both Line Maintenance (MRO) and Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisation (CAMO) operations. The certification was granted by the Transport Competence Agency (TKA) of the Republic of Lithuania, marking a significant operational pivot for the aviation services provider.
Historically recognized for its expertise in managing mid-to-end-of-life aircraft, Airhub Aviation is now adapting its technical capabilities to service next-generation narrowbody fleets. According to a company press release, the approval allows the firm to support operators of the growing Boeing 737 MAX fleet with efficient and reliable aviation services.
The transition highlights a broader industry necessity as maintenance providers upgrade their facilities and training programs to meet the surging global demand for modern, fuel-efficient aircraft maintenance.
Expanding Capabilities for Next-Generation Fleets
From Legacy Assets to the 737 MAX
Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Vilnius, Lithuania, Airhub Aviation operates as part of the GetJet aviation group. Industry background reports indicate that the company has traditionally focused on older fleets, including Airbus A320ceo aircraft and passenger-to-freighter conversions for Airbus A340 widebodies. The recent TKA approval represents a strategic expansion into modern aircraft technologies.
The newly acquired Line Maintenance approval authorizes Airhub Aviation to perform routine, day-to-day checks, troubleshooting, and minor repairs on the Boeing 737 MAX while the aircraft remains in active service. Concurrently, the CAMO certification enables the company to manage the administrative and technical tracking of the aircraft’s health, ensuring strict regulatory compliance with European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) standards.
“This approval reflects not only our teams’ dedication, professionalism, and close collaboration, but also our ability to respond with agility,” Airhub Aviation stated in its official release.
Industry Pressures and the MRO Market Surge
Meeting Global Demand
The push to certify maintenance providers for the Boeing 737 MAX aligns with significant shifts in the global commercial aviation fleet. According to Boeing’s 2025 Commercial Market Outlook, the industry projects a global demand for 33,300 new single-aisle aircraft over the next 20 years. Industry forecasts further anticipate that narrowbody jets will represent over two-thirds of the entire global commercial fleet by 2029.
This rapid fleet modernization is driving record expansion in the commercial MRO sector. Market research estimates value the MRO sector at approximately $96 billion in 2025, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of nearly 5% through the end of the decade. However, this growth is accompanied by severe supply chain bottlenecks and labor shortages. Boeing estimates that the aviation industry will require 716,000 new maintenance technicians over the next two decades to sustain global operations.
AirPro News analysis
We observe that Airhub Aviation’s certification is indicative of a larger regional trend within the Baltic states. Lithuania is actively positioning itself as a critical, agile hub for European aviation maintenance and asset management. As airlines face record-high passenger load factors, aircraft are spending more time in the air, resulting in tighter turnaround windows for maintenance teams. By expanding independent Line Maintenance and CAMO capabilities for high-demand aircraft like the 737 MAX, regional MRO providers are playing a vital role in alleviating operational bottlenecks and keeping European fleets flying without extended delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Line Maintenance in aviation?
Line maintenance involves routine, day-to-day checks, troubleshooting, and minor repairs conducted while an aircraft is in service. These tasks are typically performed between flights or overnight to ensure the aircraft is safe for its next scheduled departure.
What does CAMO stand for?
CAMO stands for Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisation. It involves the administrative and technical tracking of an aircraft’s health, managing maintenance schedules, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining detailed lifecycle records.
Who regulates aviation safety in Lithuania?
The Transport Competence Agency (TKA) is the national supervisory authority responsible for civil aviation regulation and safety in the Republic of Lithuania, ensuring compliance with EASA and ICAO standards.
Sources
Photo Credit: Airhub Aviation
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