Departing on its flight back to base at Nimes, a very welcome capture at my local airport. Although a real rarity over here, this was its second visit in recent weeks, this time in perfect conditions. Four of these multi-role 'FireGuard' water bombers are being acquired for France after conversion by Conair, to compliment two existing (ex-SAS) examples. In fire-fighting configuration, a large detachable pannier encircles the lower mid-fuselage and can drop 10,000 lites of water, foam or retardant. Otherwise, 64 pax, 9 tonnes of freight or six stretchers and medical kit can be carried.

This photo is copyright © Richard Vandervord, and may not be used or published in any way without permission.

It was added on 19 December 2020, and has since been viewed 527 times.