Saskatchewan adds a flexible Q400 aircraft for wildfire and emergency missions

The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) has received a Q400MRE airtanker, which will be based with its air fleet in La Ronge. It is the first aircraft of this type added to a Canadian fleet.

• Wildfire response: The aircraft can carry up to 10,000 litres of water or retardant.
• Other missions: Its cabin can be reconfigured for up to 64 passengers, 9,000 kg of cargo, or six stretchers with medical equipment and a clinical team.
• What happens next: The aircraft needs induction, training and certification. Some multirole capabilities may be limited during its initial introduction to service next year.
• Fleet transition: One CV580 airtanker will be retired. The SPSA says the aircraft and planned fleet maintenance will position its air operations for the 2027 wildfire season.