Aerial Operations

While SOPFEU is responsible for coordinating aerial operations on wildfires, it does not directly operate the water bombers. The Service aérien gouvernemental (SAG) maintains and pilots most of the water bombers used in Quebec. Some aircraft are also under contract with a private aviation company. The pilots' work is supervised by a SOPFEU aerial supervisor, who flies above the water bombers to oversee the operation.

Advantages of Water Bombers:

Fast and Efficient Water Loading

• The CL-215 can carry approximately 5,455 litres of water, while the CL-415 can carry 6,137 litres.

• Their ability to scoop water directly from Quebec’s lakes and rivers allows them to refill their tanks in just 12 seconds, maximizing response time.

High Maneuverability and Low-Altitude Flight

• These aircraft are designed to operate at low altitudes and speeds, allowing for precise water or retardant drops.

• Their sturdy construction enables them to fly in challenging conditions, including over rugged forest terrain.

Adaptability to Quebec’s Vast Territories

• With the ability to scoop water from natural bodies of water, these planes can operate in remote regions without requiring airport infrastructure.

• Their range and endurance allow them to cover vast distances quickly, which is crucial in a territory as large as Quebec.

Helicopters play a vital role in wildfire suppression by offering unmatched versatility and rapid response capabilities. Their ability to take off and land in difficult-to-access areas provides crucial support to ground teams.

Light Helicopters
Used for rapid transport of personnel and light equipment to isolated areas. Employed for aerial fire surveillance, enabling real-time fire monitoring and coordination of ground operations.
Capabilities:
- Transport: 3 to 4 firefighters with their equipment.
- Water Drop (Bambi Bucket): 400 to 550 litres.

Intermediate Helicopters
Provide greater lifting capacity and versatility. Can be equipped with Bambi Buckets for water drops. Essential for transporting firefighters and equipment directly to fire lines.
Capabilities:
- Transport: 4 firefighters with their equipment.
- Water Drop (Bambi Bucket): 680 to 900 litres.

Medium-Lift Helicopters
Capable of transporting large firefighting teams and heavy equipment to remote areas. Their power allows for larger water drops, strengthening fire suppression efforts. Can be equipped with belly tanks or Bambi Buckets.
Capabilities:
- Transport: 8 firefighters with their equipment.
- Water Drop: 1,590 litres.

Early wildfire detection is critical for rapid and effective intervention. Aerial surveillance allows for quick identification of emerging fires, helping prevent them from escalating out of control.

Aerial Detection
Detection missions are planned based on wildfire danger forecasts, which consider weather conditions and ignition risks. The objective is to spot smoke plumes and report their locations for a swift initial attack.

Aerial Coordination
The aerial coordinator manages water bomber and helicopter operations, ensuring each water drop is carried out effectively and safely.