Founded in 2024 and based in Blagnac, Positive Aviation is developing the FF72 by converting ATR 72 airframes into amphibious water-bombers equipped with twin scoop floats. The demonstrator program has reached a manufacturing milestone with delivery of the first of two 17m composite scoop floats built by Multiplast, and flight testing of the FF72-X1 is planned for early 2027. The company projects certification in 2028 and in-service availability for the 2029 fire season. Positive Aviation says the FF72 can deliver 8 tonnes per drop and estimates the aircraft will cost approximately €35M, about half the price of a Canadair, while serving a worldwide market it estimates at nearly 400 aircraft. Financially, the startup employs 20 staff, has raised €8M from institutional investors plus €1.4M via crowdfunding, and is preparing a further €40M round to industrialize production and establish maintenance and training capabilities. It also has a launch customer contract with Bridger Aerospace for 10 planes and 10 options, representing a potential €700M in revenue.

Total raised

$11M

Funding rounds

2

Latest round

Crowdfunding

Latest activity

Jul 2026