France's Aging Firefighting Aircraft Fleet Sparks Safety Concerns

France's Firefighting Aircraft Crisis

Amid severe wildfires in southern France, concerns are mounting about the country's outdated fleet of firefighting aircraft. A recent parliamentary report reveals that France's 23 firefighting planes and 37 helicopters are increasingly inadequate for combating modern wildfires intensified by climate change.

Aging Canadair Fleet

The backbone of France's aerial firefighting, twelve Canadair CL-415 aircraft, average 30 years old. These specialized water bombers face frequent maintenance issues, with flying hours decreasing by 34% over three years. The situation deteriorated last summer when all twelve were simultaneously grounded for repairs.

Saltwater Corrosion Problem

Originally designed for freshwater operations, the Canadairs often collect seawater in Mediterranean operations, accelerating corrosion. Replacement parts are scarce since production ceased in 2015. Additional Dash and Beechcraft aircraft in the fleet are either poorly suited for firefighting or average 45 years old.

Geographical Imbalance

The helicopter fleet is unevenly distributed, leaving northern France particularly vulnerable despite increasing wildfire risks there. Response times suffer as helicopters stationed elsewhere can't reach new fire zones quickly.

Costly Stopgap Measures

Since 2020, France has spent over €106 million renting private aircraft and outsourcing maintenance. The government has now pledged additional funding, ordered two new Canadairs, and considers ordering two more.

Current Wildfire Situation

Near Marseille, a major fire destroyed 70 homes and injured 100 people with respiratory problems. Another blaze near Narbonne has consumed 2000 hectares, though firefighters have contained its spread.