Emergency aerial services provider Avincis sent two of its fleet of Italy-based CL-415 Super Scoopers to fight fires in Israel. It took less than n 24 hours to mobilize the firebombers after the call from the Israeli government. Last year, Avincis sent its CL-415s to support wildfire-fighting efforts in Greece, Albania, and Portugal, as part of the RescEU strategic reserve program.
“We welcome the opportunity to support the people and communities of Israel by sending two Canadair CL-415s to help fight the wildfires around Tel Aviv,” said John Boag, Avincis Group CEO. “In these situations, it is important to react quickly and mobilize aircraft as soon as possible. I am immensely proud of my team for getting this mission off the ground in under 24 hours.”
The CL-415, now a De Havilland Aircraft of Canada product, can drop more than 1,500 gallons (6,000 liters) at a time. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW123AF turboprops, the amphibious CL-415 can pick up a load of water while skimming across the surface of a lake, river, or ocean.
Avincis operates 18 CL-415s that are located around Italy, in Rome, Lamezia, Genoa, Olbia, Trapani, and Naples. More than 200 pilots and technicians support the Italy fleet, which is the largest CL-415 fleet in the world, according to Avincis.