Avincis awarded largest aerial firefighting contract in Europe
January 20, 2025
Emergency aerial services operator Avincis has renewed its contract to operate Italy’s fleet of 18 CL-415 Canadairs, owned by the country’s fire brigade, for a further seven year period.
“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,” said Roberto Marcoini, Avincis managing director Italy, fixed wing division. “I would like to thank the government and the fire brigade for choosing Avincis to be their partners for the coming years”.
Operating from six bases in Italy, the Avincis fixed-wing team also participates in European civil protection initiative RescEU, which requires the team to deploy its Canadairs within 24 hours wherever they are needed. All missions are supported by maintenance centres at Ciampino and Lamezia, supported by other facilities in Genoa, Olbia, Trapani and Naples.
During 2024’s summer season, 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, praising the teams for maintaining 100% crew and aircraft availability throughout the period.
