Historic Water Bomber Destined For Wildfire Aviation Exhibit

A historic piece of B.C.’s aviation history will be preserved to ensure its story can be shared with residents and visitors for generations to come.

“The Hawaii Martin Mars water bomber is a proud symbol of B.C.’s ingenuity and innovation, representing cutting-edge technology in aviation firefighting of its time,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport.

“We recognize the value the Hawaii Martin Mars water bomber holds for many people and have heard their desire to have it housed in the British Columbia Aviation Museum, where it can be displayed and protected as an important piece of our province’s history.”

The Province is providing $250,000 in one-time funding to the British Columbia Aviation Museum to establish the aircraft as the centerpiece of its new B.C. wildfire aviation exhibit.

The new exhibit will be interactive, inviting visitors to explore the features of the aircraft up close, and foster an appreciation for its historical, cultural, and aeronautical significance. The Hawaii is one of only two Martin Mars water bombers left in existence.

The water bomber's final flight from Coulson Aviation Tanker Base in Port Alberni to Victoria International Airport is expected before the end of the year.

The Hawaii Martin Mars can land and take off only on water.

Therefore, its last flight will be from Sproat Lake to the Saanich Inlet beside Victoria International Airport.

The final stage will take place on the Canadian Coast Guard Base Patricia Bay, a former seaplane port, where the aircraft will be brought up on a ramp, mounted on a trailer and transported across Victoria International Airport runways.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.