Canadair CL-215 First Flight Anniversary

The first flight of the Canadair CL-215 occurred on October 23rd, 1967, marking a significant milestone in the Canadian aerospace industry and creating a lasting impact on aerial firefighting operations around the world.

Purpose-built as an aerial firefighting specialist, this innovative #BuiltinCanada amphibious aircraft was capable of scooping 5,455 L of water in 12 seconds from suitable water sources. Equipped with Pratt & Whitney Canada Twin Wasp R-2800 radial engines and endowed with a MTOW of 17,100 kg on water, the CL-215 was optimized for operating at low speeds with incredible maneuverability ideal for the challenging environmental conditions inherent when battling wildfires.

Production of the piston-powered CL-215 ran for over 20 years before ending in 1990 with a total of 125 aerial firefighters produced. For over 50 years the CL-215 has proven the enduring capability of the legendary Canadair aerial firefighter design, setting the bar high for all CL models that followed.