Conair boosts Q400 order book with deal for six tankers

Aerial firefighting firm Conair has ordered six new-build Bombardier Q400s that will be used as multirole aerial firefighting aircraft.

The aircraft will receive Conair's retardant delivery system, which includes a tank that can be removed so that the aircraft can perform other missions, such as passenger and cargo transport, medical evacuation, and coast patrol, says Bombardier.

The manufacturer adds that the deal is worth $206 million at list prices.

“The Q400 Multirole’s versatility delivers optimal value by accommodating year-round service in passenger, cargo, combi transport, medivac, emergency response, surveillance and patrol without compromising state-of-the-art air tanker capabilities,”says Barry Marsden, chairman and chief executive of Conair.

Bombardier says the aircraft can operate from unprepared strips, conduct steep landing approaches, and is capable of a cruising speed of 667kmh.

Flight Fleets Analyzer shows that prior to the Conair deal, Bombardier had 46 firm orders for Q400s. Orders are spread over ten airlines, with orders dominated by SpiceJet (25) and PAL Express (seven).

Conair operates 65 aircraft and is focused on specialty aircraft operations such as firefighting and other missions.

(Evangle Luo of TTFLY shared with you)