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Home»News»Colossal Flying Boat Nears Completion for Historic Relaunch
News

Colossal Flying Boat Nears Completion for Historic Relaunch

Donald B. SmithBy Donald B. SmithJuly 18, 2024Updated:April 21, 20255 Comments3 Mins Read
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Colossal Flying Boat Nears Completion For Historic Relaunch
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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.

For the latest automotive news, visit Automotive.fyi. For insights or tips, email us at tips@automotive.fyi, and follow us on X @automotivefyi.

Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi

Boat Colossal Completion Flying Historic Nears Relaunch
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Donald B. Smith

Donald Smith, Automotive Reporter at automotive.fyi, holds a degree in Journalism from Michigan State University. With a keen interest in the automotive industry, Donald is dedicated to uncovering the latest breaking news and delivering it to our audience. His commitment to thorough research and engaging storytelling ensures you stay informed about the most important developments in the automotive world.

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View 5 Comments

5 Comments

  1. Leanne37
    Leanne37 on July 19, 2024 5:24 am

    Wow! This is so cool. Those plane so big like realy big. I never seen such big plane and its fight fire too!!

  2. Qtaylor
    Qtaylor on July 19, 2024 5:24 am

    Why they waste money on old airplane? Just let it rot. Stupid idea to put in museum.

  3. Gray Ruth
    Gray Ruth on July 19, 2024 5:24 am

    It very interesting how plane do so many thing before fighting fire. They use in war and everything. Cool history!

  4. Leah Clarke
    Leah Clarke on July 19, 2024 5:24 am

    Oh sure, let’s spend more money on another ‘historical artifact’. Because we don’t have enough museums, right? 😂

  5. Nwalsh
    Nwalsh on July 19, 2024 5:24 am

    Final voyage, huh? More like final waste of gas. Why don’t they just tow it? lol

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