Firefighting Captain - Various Turboprop AircraftBuffalo Airways
Aircraft: L-188 Electra, CL-215, Turbo Commander, King Air 100, King Air C90A, AT802 FirebossLocation: YellowknifeNon-type rated
Total Time1,500 hrs
PIC Time1,000 hrs
About This Role
Buffalo Airways is seeking an experienced Firefighting Captain to operate various turboprop aircraft in aerial wildfire suppression operations based in Yellowknife, Canada. This is a challenging and rewarding position flying fixed-wing aircraft including the L-188 Electra, CL-215, Turbo Commander, King Air variants, and AT802 Fireboss at low altitudes to drop water and fire retardants on active wildfires. Candidates must have a minimum of 1500 total flight hours with 1000 hours as PIC, valid TCCA ATPL/IR license, Class 1 Medical, and ICAO English Level 4 proficiency. Prior aerial firefighting or forestry experience and float endorsement are preferred. The position requires excellent decision-making skills, physical fitness, and the ability to work flexibly in demanding, high-stress conditions.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Operate fixed-wing turboprop aircraft to fight wildfires
- Fly at low altitudes and high speeds through rugged terrain
- Drop water or fire retardants on active fires
- Make quick decisions in high-stress situations
- Communicate and coordinate with ground crews and other pilots
- Conduct aircraft pre-flight checks and maintenance coordination
- Comply with aviation regulations and safety procedures
What We Offer
Competitive salary and benefits package
Requirements
- Valid TCCA ATPL license with Instrument Rating
- Minimum 1500 hours total flight time
- Minimum 1000 hours PIC time
- Valid Class 1 Medical Certificate
- ICAO English Language Proficiency Level 4 or higher
- Strong knowledge of aviation regulations and safety procedures
- Excellent flying skills and decision-making ability in high-stress situations
- Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively with ground crews and other pilots
- Flexibility to work long hours and in various weather conditions
- Physically fit and able to endure demanding conditions
- Current valid passport
- Valid driver's license
- Experience in aerial firefighting, forestry, or relevant aerial work (preferred)
- Float endorsement (advantageous)
About Buffalo Airways
Buffalo Airways is a Canadian airline operator based in Yellowknife, specializing in aerial firefighting and wildfire suppression operations using a fleet of specialized turboprop aircraft.