Colossal Flying Boat Nears Completion for Historic Relaunch

Historic Hawaii Mars Flying Boat Prepares for Final Voyage

Being a firefighter is undeniably one of the most thrilling and impactful jobs, and aerial firefighting takes it a step further. Once, firefighters soared over undisturbed wilderness to safeguard it from advancing flames. Now, an iconic figure in North American aerial firefighting, the WWII-era Hawaii Mars flying boat, is primed for its final journey.

The Legendary Hawaii Mars

The Hawaii Mars, operated by Coulson Aviation, has been a staple in Canadian firefighting missions since 2007. This enormous seaplane, a Martin JRM Mars aircraft, was originally designed for the U.S. Navy during World War II. Ranking next to the stately Spruce Goose, it holds the title of one of the largest seaplanes and the largest wooden aircraft ever constructed.

A Storied History

Out of the two surviving Martin JRM Mars aircraft, the Hawaii Mars has had an illustrious career. Between 2007 and 2015, it played a key role in tackling forest fires in Canada. Before fighting fires, the Hawaii Mars was pivotal in various capacities: transporting cargo between Hawaii and California, participating in the Korean War, and acting as a U.S. Navy cargo aircraft during World War II.

Preparing for Retirement

Due to its age, the Hawaii Mars was retired by Coulson Aviation in 2015. This year, it was announced that the aircraft would be donated to a museum in Victoria, British Columbia. After eight years of non-operation, the Hawaiian Mars is gearing up for one last flight.

"Our Mars aircraft maintenance and flight crews have been working tirelessly to ready the aircraft for its final journey," stated Britt Coulson, president and chief operating officer of Coulson Aviation.

The Final Flight

Currently, the crew is conducting exhaustive maintenance procedures, inspections, and obtaining the necessary government approvals to ensure the aircraft’s readiness. Once these tasks are complete, the vintage seaplane will embark on its final flight from Sproat Lake in Port Alberni to Patricia Bay, near Victoria Airport, where it will be displayed for the public.

The Future Home for the Hawaii Mars

The Hawaii Mars’ final resting place will be a museum in Victoria, British Columbia, joining its sister ship, the Philippine Mars, in preservation. The Philippine Mars will soon be added to the esteemed collection at the Pima Air and Space Museum in Tucson, Arizona.

Legacy of Aerial Firefighters

These two seaplanes were once the largest firefighting aircraft operationally. They have since been replaced by modern giants like firefighting 737s and even the responsive 757s used for water drops.

Summary

The legacy of the Hawaii Mars highlights the evolution and technological advancements in aerial firefighting. As it prepares for its museum journey, the Hawaii Mars symbolizes a bridge between historical resilience and modern innovation in aviation. This legendary aircraft not only served in wars but also protected our forests, and now it will serve as a historical artifact for public education and admiration.

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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi