Toulouse-based Positive Aviation has reached a critical stage in its FF72-X1 development program. On July 23, the startup received the first of two composite scooping floats designed for its amphibious aerial firefighting platform, which is based on the ATR 72 airframe.
The floats, manufactured by the French firm Multiplast, measure 17 meters in length and weigh 1.2 metric tons. Engineering these components presents a significant structural challenge, as the units must withstand the immense hydrodynamic forces experienced during water scooping operations at speeds of 180 km/h. The design draws from high-performance racing trimaran construction techniques to meet these durability requirements.
These components are now headed to the Airbus Technocentre in Nantes for assembly before being transported to Toulouse-Blagnac. There, Positive Aviation will commence the flight test campaign for the FF72-X1 demonstrator, currently scheduled for early 2027. The company aims to secure certification by 2028, with entry into service projected for the 2029 wildfire season. The FF72 is intended to carry 8 metric tons of water, with the project backed by launch customer Bridger Aerospace.