Coulson Aviation to convert 10 retired Hercules aircraft into firefighting tankers

The Canadian federal government has sold 10 retired CC-130H Hercules military aircraft to Coulson Aviation. The company intends to convert these planes into aerial firefighting tankers to combat wildfires in Canada and internationally.

The aircraft were part of a fleet of 12 retired by the Royal Canadian Air Force in January 2026, with the remaining two slated for museum display. The sale is subject to Transport Canada regulatory approvals and the completion of contractual arrangements.

This acquisition is expected to increase activity at Coulson Aviation’s operations at the Alberni Valley Regional Airport. The expansion may also provide career opportunities for local students in the company’s aircraft maintenance programs.