Avincis wins contract for biggest firefighting operation in Europe

Avincis, an operator of emergency aerial services, will continue to operate the world’s largest fleet of CL-415 Canadairs, owned by the Italian fire brigade, to support timely and effective interventions in all situations.

Roberto Marcolini, Avincis Managing Director Italy Fixed Wing Division, said: “We have been proud to operate this fleet for more than 20 years, saving lives and protecting communities thanks to the commitment, courage and dedication of our pilots, technicians and other team members, who all work together to provide this world-class service to the people of Italy. I would like to thank the government and the fire brigade for choosing Avincis to be their partners for the coming years.”

Italy is also an active participant in rescEU, the European civil protection mechanism, which requires the Avincis fixed-wing team to deploy the Italian Canadairs within 24 hours to wherever they are needed. Recent missions include Portugal, Greece, and Albania.

Operating from six bases in Italy, all missions are supported by maintenance centers at Ciampino and Lamezia, supported by other facilities in Genoa, Olbia, Trapani and Naples.

Last summer (2024) the Italian Avincis team logged 4,000 flight hours over a 62-day period, conducting 1,500 missions and 15,000 water drops with its 15 aircraft. “We are proud to have contributed saving communities and protecting the environment across Europe during this critical period,” commented Marcolini.