Everything about Cl-415 totally explained
The
Bombardier 415 (formerly
Canadair CL-415) is a
Canadian amphibious aircraft purpose-built as a
water bomber. It is the only aircraft designed and built specifically for
aerial firefighting and is based on the company's
CL-215. It is marketed in the
United States as the "Superscooper."
Design and development
In 1987, following market trends towards more efficient, powerful and reliable
turboprop powerplants, Canadair undertook the task of retrofitting a number of CL-215 airframes (17) with the
Pratt & Whitney Canada PW123AF engines, providing a 15% power increase over the original
piston engines. The retrofitted aircraft were designated CL-215T and also featured many
aerodynamic and systems improvements including powered flight controls,
cockpit air conditioning, as well as upgraded electrical and avionics systems. The most notable external features of the CL-215T retrofit were the aerodynamic additions to the
wings and
empennage.
Based on the success of the CL-215, the company introduced the CL-415, a new-build production series beginning in 1993. The 415 has an updated cockpit, aerodynamics enhancements and changes to the water-release system as well, creating a modern
firefighting amphibious flying boat for use in detecting and suppressing
forest fires.
Compared to the CL-215, the 415 has increased operating weight and speed, yielding improved productivity and performance. The 415 can scoop up to 6,140 litres (1350 Imperial gal or 1,620 US gal) of water from a nearby water source, mix it with a chemical foam if desired, and drop it on a fire without having to return to base to refill its tanks. The 415 was specifically developed to provide the capability to deliver massive quantities of suppressant in quick response to fires. The aircraft is built for reliability and longevity, with use of corrosion-resistant materials. Water loads are scooped through two probes that measure 4 x 6 inches. The new 415GR has higher operating weights while the Bombardier 415 multi-role is available for use in a paramilitary
search and rescue role and utility transport.
Operational history
The "415" first flew in December of
1993 with the first deliveries in November
1994. Orders from many countries soon followed. Derived from its predecessor's nickname, it acquired the name, "Super Scooper" in light of its greatly enhanced performance as a water bomber and fire suppressant weapon. In recognition of its abilities in the dangerous but necessary tasks of fire fighting, the aircraft was awarded the prestigious
Batefuegos de oro (gold fire extinguisher). The award citation in part read "This is the most efficient tool for the aerial combat of forest fires, key to the organization of firefighting in a large number of countries. The continuous improvements to meet the needs of forest firefighting have made these aircraft the aerial means most in demand over more than 30 years."
Of the 67 built, seven have been removed from service due to accidents.
Variants
415 :
;415GR :
415MR : multi-role
Operators
