Water Bombers Deployed in Labrador as 2026 Wildfire Season Begins

The provincial government has activated water bomber coverage in Labrador for the 2026 forest fire season, positioning two CL-415 water bombers in Happy Valley-Goose Bay as wildfire conditions begin to develop across the region.

The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture said the aircraft are part of a fleet of five CL-415 water bombers deployed throughout Newfoundland and Labrador during the wildfire season. The aircraft are stationed at locations where fire risk is highest or expected to increase based on the Fire Weather Index.

In addition to Happy Valley-Goose Bay, airports in Wabush, Deer Lake, Gander and St. John's are equipped to host water bombers as needed.

The province said more than 100 wildland firefighters are stationed at 22 Forestry Management District offices across Newfoundland and Labrador. Fire suppression resources, including ground crews, heavy equipment and aircraft, may be relocated throughout the season in response to changing wildfire conditions.

Officials noted that aircraft and firefighting personnel can be moved daily during periods of heightened wildfire activity to ensure resources are available where they are needed most.