On August 11, 2024, the iconic Hawaii Martin Mars water bomber took to the skies for its final flight, marking the end of an era in aerial firefighting. The massive aircraft, renowned for its firefighting capabilities, departed from its long-time base at Sproat Lake in Port Alberni and headed towards its new home at the B.C. Aviation Museum in North Saanich, Vancouver Island.
The departure was a momentous occasion, witnessed by thousands of spectators who gathered at Sproat Lake and along the flight path. The lake was dotted with boats, canoes, and kayaks, while others watched from the shore, cheering as the Hawaii Mars lifted off the water for the last time. The aircraft was escorted by nine Canadian Forces Snowbirds jets, which performed a non-aerobatic display to honor the legendary water bomber.
The Hawaii Martin Mars, one of the last two examples of the Martin Mars flying boats, has a rich history dating back to its inaugural flight on June 23, 1942. Originally designed as a long-range transport aircraft for the U.S. Navy, it was later converted into an air tanker in 1959. Over its operational life, the Hawaii Mars dropped approximately 190 million liters of water on wildfires, playing a crucial role in firefighting efforts across British Columbia.
The final leg of the journey saw the Hawaii Mars landing in Saanich Inlet, where it was greeted by an enthusiastic crowd at Patricia Bay Park. Longtime pilot Peter Killin, who has logged over 1,000 hours flying the Hawaii Mars, and Harbour Air pilot Rick Matthews, were at the controls for this historic flight. The aircraft will now be preserved as the centerpiece of a new wildfire exhibition at the B.C. Aviation Museum, set to open on September 28, 2024.
Wayne Coulson, CEO of Coulson Aviation, the company that purchased the Hawaii Mars in 2007, expressed mixed emotions about the aircraft’s retirement. “It’s bittersweet to say goodbye,” he said, but added that the aircraft’s new role in the museum would allow future generations to appreciate its legacy. Steve Nichol, president of the museum, echoed this sentiment, calling the Hawaii Mars the “jewel in the crown” of the museum’s firefighting display.
The final flight of the Hawaii Martin Mars marks the end of a significant chapter in aviation history, but its legacy will continue to inspire and educate visitors at the B.C. Aviation Museum for years to come.
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