Avincis secures three-year contract to support Portugal’s wildfire response

Avincis has been awarded a Portuguese government contract to continue operating three Canadair CL-215 aircraft, two primary and one backup. These aircraft are integrated into the national firefighting response system, DECIR, and mobilized whenever necessary. The contract is valid for the next three years, ending in 2027.

The three CL-215s are operated on behalf of the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC), strengthening the aerial firefighting capabilities at the service of the Portuguese state to fight rural fires. The aircraft are based at the Castelo Branco airfield until 15 October.

The amphibious Canadair aircraft has a large payload capacity (around 6,000L of water), versatility, and maneuverability, can drop water or fire retardants, and can either take off fully loaded or refill in lakes or rivers without stopping – making it highly efficient.

Avincis also provides the Portuguese Civil Protection with a helicopter for reconnaissance, assessment, and coordination, based at the Ponte de Sor airfield. This aircraft, an Airbus AS350 helicopter, will also be part of the firefighting response system until the end of the 2027 fire season.

John Boag, Group CEO of Avincis, said: “We are extremely pleased to continue operating the Canadairs in Portugal, especially with a three-year contract. This ensures that Portugal – the country where we chose to establish our global corporate headquarters – will continue to have access to this essential amphibious aircraft, which is now scarcely available on the market, for wildfire suppression.

“Avincis’ Canadairs, our crews, pilots and technicians, have been supporting Portuguese firefighters for more than 20 years with excellent results, as the 2024 fire season demonstrates. This is something we are very proud of.”

Avincis was recently awarded new firefighting contracts in Spain.