February 16, 2025
Conair Selects Daher TBM 960 as Aerial Firefighting ‘Bird Dog’ Aircraft

Conair Selects Daher TBM 960 as Aerial Firefighting ‘Bird Dog’ Aircraft

Aerial firefighting specialist group Conair has selected the Daher TBM 960 single engine turboprop for service as its 'bird dog' aircraft.
A Conair Daher TBM 960 in flight.
Photo Credit: Daher

Daher’s TBM and Kodiak aircraft families expand their multi-mission capabilities with Conair Group Inc.’s acquisition of two new TBM 960s for wildfire monitoring operations.

After evaluating 50 different aircraft types, Conair chose the TBM 960 for its first-ever wildfire air attack operations. These operations involve continuous fire monitoring, risk assessment, and coordination of water and retardant drops from airtankers.

Selection of TBM 960 for ‘Bird Dog’ Operations


After conducting an exhaustive evaluation of 50 different aircraft types, Conair’s selection of the TBM 960 breaks new ground as the aircraft’s first deployment in wildfire air attack operations.

These critical missions involve continuous fire monitoring, comprehensive risk assessment, and precise coordination of water and retardant drops from airtanker aircraft.

The pressurized, turboprop-powered TBM 960 impressed Conair with its exceptional combination of performance characteristics.

It boasts modern design standards, advanced technological integration, outstanding reliability, and robust manufacturer support from Daher. The company took delivery of its first aircraft from Daher’s sophisticated Tarbes, France facility in October, with the second unit joining the fleet this month.

Nicolas Chabbert, CEO of Daher Aircraft, highlighted the company’s comprehensive support structure.

“Conair can rely on our full Daher Care support organization, backed by our extensive multi-mission expertise developed through worldwide TBM and Kodiak operations. This ensures optimal performance and reliability in challenging firefighting conditions.”

Photo Credits: Conair

TBM 960 Features


The TBM 960’s advanced safety features prove particularly valuable in demanding wildfire missions. These include sophisticated digital e-copilot technology, enhanced electronic stability control, emergency descent mode capabilities.

Up front it boasts state-of-the-art engine control systems, advanced doppler radar for weather monitoring, and an innovative automated emergency landing system.

Conair’s president and CEO, Matt Bradley, emphasized the strategic value of their aircraft choice. “Our selection of the TBM 960 for modernizing our birddog fleet ensures consistent operational readiness during critical periods.”

“This investment eliminates concerns about spare parts availability, reduces maintenance requirements, and addresses obsolescence issues that plague older aircraft.”

2025 Entry into Service


Currently, Conair is enhancing the TBM 960s with specialized avionics and equipment specifically designed for wildfire operations.

The aircraft will enter service during the 2025 fire season in Canada, operating with a unique crew configuration. A government Air Attack Officer will occupy the right seat, working alongside a Conair pilot. This arrangement optimizes coordination between aerial and ground firefighting teams.

Bird Dog Capabilities

Mike Benson, Conair’s director of business development, outlined the compelling advantages of the new TBM 960s over their aging fleet. The aircraft deliver an impressive combination of capabilities. It has sufficient speed to keep pace with large airtankers, superior visibility for monitoring crowded airspace, and the ability to maintain stable flight at low speeds while directing water drops.

Additionally, these versatile platforms can be adapted for supplementary roles such as wildfire mapping and search and rescue operations.

The broader TBM family has consistently demonstrated its adaptability across various specialized roles, including military transport, flight testing, and aerial cinematography.

These applications benefit from the aircraft’s unique underwing hardpoint capability, allowing for the integration of specialized equipment.

Photo Credit: Daher

Daher’s Kodiak Line


Daher’s Kodiak aircraft line, manufactured at their Sandpoint, Idaho facility, continues to serve diverse missions globally. The Kodiak 100 and the extended Kodiak 900 excel in challenging environments. It is a capable performer for short takeoff and landing operations from remote locations.

The Kodiak 100’s amphibious capabilities further extend its operational versatility. Currently, approximately 100 Kodiaks perform multi-mission duties worldwide, accumulating roughly 35,000 flight hours annually in specialized service.

As of 31 December 2024, Daher’s total deliveries stand at 365 Kodiak and 1,243 TBM aircraft worldwide, with the combined fleet achieving an impressive milestone of nearly three million accumulated flight hours.

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