October 29, 2026
MMF teams with Babcock for aviation takeoff
By: Gabrielle Piché – Posted:
Métis leadership’s hopes are flying high: the Manitoba Métis Federation aims to be the province’s next aerial firefighting contractor.
On Thursday, the MMF unveiled a business it’s launched with Babcock Canada, a mammoth aviation and engineering company.
The pair signed a memorandum of understanding and committed to work together long-term.
“What better connection would you want?” Chartrand said. “It’s (the) perfect partnership.”
The Manitoba Métis Federation bought an airstrip in Pine Dock two years ago. It’s spent millions of dollars renovating the 400-acre site, Chartrand said.
Meantime, Babcock Canada has sought to expand its aviation business in Manitoba. It manages seven water bombers and three spotter aircraft for wildfire suppression.
The Manitoba government awarded Babcock a 10-year contract in 2019.
