Published last March, 2026:
A new Avincis report warns Europe is dangerously unprepared for worsening wildfires. Following record 2025 fires (1.03M hectares burned), experts cite an ageing fleet, insufficient investment, and severe pilot shortages (12 EASA license conversions vs 1-2 in US). Though EU committed €600M for 22 DHC-515 aircraft (2027-2030), capacity remains inadequate. Industry calls for bulk procurement frameworks, faster licensing, and sustained funding shifting from reactive response to preparedness. The workforce gap alone could take a decade to close, leaving Europe under-equipped for longer, more intense fire seasons across six countries receiving delayed deliveries
