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Wildfire demand pushes production at North Saanich water bomber parts site

De Havilland ups to 300 staff in preparation for 24 European planes
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De Havilland Canada is amping up local production of parts for the DHC 515 firefighter water bomber at its North Saanich site. (Courtesy De Havilland Canada)

While finalizing contracts with Europe for two dozen new firefighting planes, De Havilland Canada has amped up local production.

Over the last six months or so, the company bolstered up to 300 employees at its North Saanich site (formerly Viking Air), where parts are made in anticipation of assembly in Calgary, according to Neil Sweeney, vice-president of corporate affairs.

“Knock on wood, heavily, our HR people have been very good at recruiting.

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Christine van Reeuwyk

About the Author: Christine van Reeuwyk

I'm dedicated to serving the community of Oak Bay as a senior journalist with the Greater Victoria news team.
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