FORT MCMURRAY — A monstrous plane, considered the world’s largest water bomber, is now involved in a battle to snuff out a number of forest fires in a tinder-dry region of northeastern Alberta.
The Martin Mars flying boat, which can carry 27,000 litres of water, started bombing runs on fires north of Fort McMurray Sunday afternoon.
The four-engine plane can cover one and a half hectares in one sweep and can also carry fire suppresant.
The aircraft was to be used initially on two small out-of-control fires north of Fort McMurray.
Hundreds of firefighters, backed up by heavy equipment and smaller aircraft, are also battling the flames.
Alberta Sustainable Resource Development says the biggest blaze in the region covers an area about five times the size of the City of Edmonton.