Global fixed-wing aerial firefighting aircraft provider Conair Group has bought six Q400 aircraft from Bombardier Specialized Aircraft for a total value of $206m.

These newly acquired aircraft will be redesigned to feature an improved version of Conair’s retardant delivery system, as well as interiors to accommodate passenger, cargo, combi, and medivac requirements.

In the Multirole configuration, the Q400 aircraft offers an opportunity to remove and reinstall the retardant tank as and when required.

“The Q400 Multirole is the ideal aircraft to meet Conair’s needs, offering a unique ability to serve diverse and challenging environments.”

This facility helps the aircraft to smoothly perform additional tasks in emergency response, passenger and cargo transport, medivac, and coastal patrol missions.

The Q400 Multirole is also capable of operating out of unprepared strips, conducting steep approaches when landing. It has short take-off capabilities and can fly at a speed of 667km/h.

Bombardier Specialized Aircraft vice-president Stéphane Leroy said: “The Q400 Multirole delivers the efficiency, reliability, reduced downtime and low operating costs of the Q400 in a multi-role application.

“Combining turboprop economics and jet-like performance, the Q400 Multirole delivers exceptional value.

“The Q400 Multirole is the ideal aircraft to meet Conair’s needs, offering a unique ability to serve diverse and challenging environments.”

More than 1,000 specialised Bombardier aircraft are currently in service worldwide.

In a separate development, Bombardier announced that it is reviewing options as part of an ongoing five-year turnaround plan for its global facilities, including Downsview in Ontario, Canada.

The plan is expected to ensure long-term success for Bombardier.