Bombardier 415 amphibious water bomber

Monday morning we watched the water bomber do a few final runs over the site of Sunday evening's fire. Driving out to the lake a few minutes from town, we were also able to see the plane skim the surface of the water to refill its tanks. Using a method called "water scooping", the plane needs a mere 12 seconds, while touching the water for only 1350 feet, to load 1621-US gallons of water. This is incredible, considering the water is collected through just two ports, each 3 inches high and 5 inches wide! (see photo below).


The plane made its last run to the drop site while we were at the lake. On the way home we stopped by the airport where the plane, followed by the "bird dog", landed. Our friend Herb, a missionary pilot in the north, was with us. As we stood watching the water bomber refueling, the pilot came over and asked if we'd like to see the plane close-up. Of course, we said yes! He took us inside the plane, and explained the water bombing process.

What an amazing piece of machinery, simply packed with technology! I'm glad I had the privilege of taking an impromptu tour of the Bombardier 415 water bomber, owned by the Ontario Government.

Here is link to Bombardier's official site with some video clips of the plane in action.