Fifth water bomber on track to rejoin fleet ahead of wildfire season

A fifth water bomber is on schedule to return to service in time for this year’s wildfire season, bolstering firefighting capacity following a year marked by destructive fires.

In a statement, government officials said repairs to the aircraft are progressing well, with most structural work now complete. The water bomber is expected to be operational by May 1.

The aircraft are often deployed in high-risk situations where rapid response is essential.